Brisbane have revealed Round 1 debutant and Pick 5 selection Levi Ashcroft will start as the sub in Saturday's meeting with Sydney.
The Lions confirmed Ashcroft's debut on Thursday afternoon and simultaneously revealed the father-son addition will be starting on the interchange come the opening bounce.
The reigning premiers have all of their players from last September's grand final available except for retired key forward Joe Daniher, with the Lions managing a healthy list through the off-season.
Despite the squeeze for selection, Ashcroft has secured his place in Chris Fagan's side for this weekend as he begins his AFL career.
“It is a bloody fair effort to break into this side when you think of it,” Fagan said in his address to the playing group.
“Of the 23 that represented this club in the Grand Final last year, the only bloke missing in Joey (Joe Daniher) because he retired, but everybody is fit and available for selection.
“So, on the back of having shoulder surgery, a bit of a later start to the pre-season then getting involved in some of the later practice games, you've been able to force your way into the side which is a remarkable effort when you think about it.
“We wish you all the best, continue the Ashcroft tradition in the Brisbane Lions family and play alongside your brother (Will) which is going to be really exciting.
“We know you are going to make a huge contribution to the team when you come onto the ground, so well done.”
Like his older brother Will, who will return to a competitive match for the first time since his Norm Smith Medal-winning outing against Sydney, Levi will follow in the footsteps of his father Marcus in donning Lions colours.
A three-time premiership winner with the Sandringham Dragons, the younger Ashcroft is viewed as one of the more ready-made draftees from the 2025 class after a dominant campaign last year in midfield at several levels.
The teenager will have to compete with his older brother, as well as star talent in Lachie Neale, Hugh McCluggage, Jarrod Berry and Josh Dunkley for midfield minutes.
The Lions, who are preparing for their first game of 2025 after their Opening Round clash with Geelong was postponed, will kickstart their premiership defence in the Harbour City on Saturday at 4:15pm (AEDT) at the SCG.
