Buddy set to make MCG return as Hawks and Swans eye big ins for Round 7

Fans at the MCG for Hawthorn’s clash with Sydney on Sunday afternoon will be treated to a sight of the greatest key forward of the 21st century, with Lance Franklin to make an appearance.

Franklin has largely kept out of the public eye since retiring effective immediately in June of last year after a calf injury mid-season and turned down a place in the 2023 Grand Final motorcade.

But he’ll return to the venue where he booted 342 of his 1066 AFL goals in Round 7 for a match between his two former sides.

Hawthorn informed fans on Tuesday afternoon of a chance to thank Franklin at the game, while Sydney is yet to comment. Franklin’s exact movements on the day are unclear, although Seven’s Mitch Cleary reports the now 37-year-old is expected to speak at a president’s function prior to the 4:00pm bounce and also to fans at some point.

Franklin retired with 354 AFL games to his name, 182 of those coming in the brown and gold before his shock trade to Sydney in 2013.

Both Sydney and Hawthorn are coming off Round 6 wins and are set to make changes ahead of Sunday’s clash. Hawks midfielder Will Day has been cleared to play his first game of 2024 after overcoming a stress fracture in his foot, while key forward Mitch Lewis is a chance to return from multiple leg complaints.

Sydney veteran Luke Parker is also a chance to make his first AFL appearance of the season after breaking his arm in the pre-season.