HAWTHORN premiership captain Sam Mitchell will miss Sunday's crucial clash with North Melbourne after failing to overcome a hamstring injury.

With the result beyond doubt, Mitchell sat out the entire final term of the Hawks' big loss to Collingwood last week.

While the Hawks said at the time that the move was more precautionary, and selected their skipper in Thursday night's squad, coach Alastair Clarkson has not included him in his final 22.

Mitchell's absence continues the club's dismal injury run to start 2010, although it will regain Brad Sewell from a broken collarbone and Lance Franklin and Liam Shiels from suspension.

North Melbourne confirmed its top draft pick from last year, Ben Cunnington, will make his AFL debut at Aurora Stadium.

The Kangaroos have made two changes to the side beaten by the Sydney Swans, with Levi Greenwood also selected at the expense of Leigh Harding and Sam Wright.

Essendon welcomes back 408 matches' experience with three big inclusions for its Anzac Day match against Collingwood.

However, Mark McVeigh, Brent Stanton and Angus Monfries will need to confirm their fitness on Saturday ahead of the sold-out encounter.

Collingwood has opted for height, with Nathan Brown and Chris Dawes earning a promotion alongside Ben Reid.

A week after dropping Shane O'Bree - who is an emergency this week - Mick Malthouse has made a tough call on another veteran with Tarkyn Lockyer omitted. Leigh Brown has also been demoted to the emergency list.

Veteran midfielder Ben Cousins is among five big inclusions for Richmond, despite earlier speculation he wouldn't line up against Fremantle on Sunday.

The Tigers will also be bolstered by captain Chris Newman and Nathan Foley, who will play his first match since round 14 last year.

Fremantle will unveil debutant Nat Fyfe in the game at Subiaco Oval.

Carlton and Geelong will finalise their teams for Monday at 4pm on Saturday.