The Gabba clash is scheduled for Thursday night at 7:30pm AEST and will be broadcast across Channel 7, Fox Footy, and Kayo Sports.

Gulden’s return follows a knee-to-shoulder rehab process, and the midfielder expresses excitement and readiness for the Gabba clash.

In a notable Round 16 move, the Sydney Swans recall Tom McCartin from injury and include Peter Ladhams to support Brodie Grundy in the ruck as Hayden McLean exits the side.

Errol Gulden returns from a three‑month shoulder injury and is cleared to play with minimal restrictions, boosting Sydney as they aim to replicate their earlier round‑one win over Brisbane.

Ladhams earns a senior recall for his second game of 2026, while McCartin’s return strengthens the Swans’ backline and midfield transition.

Brisbane is reminded to respect the Lions at home, with Dean Cox noting Brisbane’s strength around the contest and Sydney’s handball-driven style this season.

Cox confirms Gulden is fit and will play essentially as normal, with no planned load management for the match.

Brisbane makes a single change by bringing back defender Ryan Lester for Shadeau Brain as they push to restart their campaign from eighth place.

Brisbane, coming off a bye, aims to rebound after a mid‑season slump, while Sydney sits second on the ladder behind Fremantle.

In their first meeting, Sydney defeated a weakened Brisbane by 44 points; this rematch adds back Harris Andrews, Zac Bailey, Darcy Gardiner, and Ryan Lester for the Lions, with Hugh McCluggage out with a calf issue.

Gulden’s comeback is framed as a key boost as Sydney seeks to challenge Brisbane at the Lions’ home ground and potentially repeat their round-one result.

The game will feature a heavy emphasis on Brisbane’s midfield contest and stoppage work, with Zorko ruled out through a quad injury and McCluggage sidelined with a calf.