Essendon is bracing for the heat in its second JLT Community Series match against Gold Coast today.

The temperature is expected to reach 31 degrees while humidity could also be a factor.

Teams will be able to rotate eight players through the interchange bench during the match.

The game will mark Heath Hocking’s first appearance in red and black since round 23, 2015.

“It’s exciting … I’m just looking forward to the first bounce, it’s going to be hot and humid,” he said.

“It’ll be good to get a good hit-out and get our preparation in terms of going into round one all set and going.”

Last year’s runner-up in the best and fairest Joe Daniher and Brent Stanton will also play their first games of the pre-season.

“Obviously not being able to play with Joey last year and seeing him really develop it’ll be nice to get out there with him,” Hocking said.

“And having trained a lot with Stants last year it’ll be good that he can have his comeback as well … it’s just an exciting time and we’re looking forward to getting out there.

“I know at the first change I’ll be looking for some oxygen but it’ll be good.”