The VFL Cats have made four changes for Saturday afternoon's curtain-raising clash, as they prepare to take on the Sydney Swans at GMHBA Stadium. 

Headlining the inclusions is tough on-baller James Worpel, who will make his first VFL appearance since Geelong's Round 3 victory over Werribee. 

Nathan Kreuger is also set to return, providing a welcome boost to Geelong's defensive unit, while South Barwon pair Zach Stevens and Lachlan Weidemann are set to pull on the Hoops for the first time. 

Will White, Patrick Kelly and Jesse Mellor will all miss this week through injury, while Kye Annand will be managed. 

Geelong sit clear atop the VFL ladder after seven games and will be looking to solidify their standing, set to take on Sydney at GMHBA Stadium in a battle between first and third in the standings. 

The Cats will take a strong team into Saturday's clash with 13 AFL-listed players named, searching for a seventh win after comfortably defeating Brisbane last weekend. 

Saturday's match will commence at 12.05pm AEST at GMHBA Stadium prior to the AFL match at 4.15pm, with all AFL ticket holders also able to gain entry to the VFL clash. 

Gate 13 at GMHBA Stadium will be open from 11.35am and seating will be in the Brownlow Stand A28-A31. Following the VFL match, patrons will need to move to their allocated seat for the AFL game.

For more information in the build up to Saturday's big day at GMHBA Stadium, check out Geelong's Match Day Guide for everything you need to know. 

Every game of the 2026 Smithy's VFL season can also be streamed through the AFL app and via afl.com.au. 

2026 VFL Round 9

Geelong Cats v Sydney Swans
GMHBA Stadium, Geelong
12.05pm AEST, Saturday May 23

In: Nathan Kreuger, Zach Stevens, Lachlan Weidemann, James Worpel

Out: Patrick Kelly, Jesse Mellor, Will White (injured), Kye Annand (managed)

New: Zach Stevens (South Barwon), Lachlan Weidemann (South Barwon)