Essendon has named its squad for an Official Practice Match against North Melbourne ahead of the 2026 AFLW season.

The Dons will bring a healthy blend of young talent and experienced heads into their clash with the reigning premiers.

Fresh-faced draftee Nalu Brothwell has been named, with Irish recruit Emma Dineen and ex-Crow Zoe Prowse also amongst the action.

Bonnie Toogood leads the line up forward as skipper, while a deep midfield of Wales, Prespakis, Gaylor and Cain will look to get the side going.

The Bombers take on the Roos this Saturday from 10:30am AEST at Avalon Airport Oval in Werribee. The match will be livestreamed on the EFC website.