Essendon VFL has named its squad to face Box Hill in a practice match this Saturday afternoon.

Midfielder Dylan Shiel will make his playing return from a foot injury after training fully over the past few weeks, while Sam Draper and Ben Hobbs will both continue to build through the VFL in their respective returns.

The Bombers' named VFL squad features a strong contingent of first-year players including Nate Caddy, who is set for increased minutes in his second game back.

AFL emergencies Nick Hind and Jayden Laverde have each been named to play against Box Hill, providing welcome experience at each end of the ground.

The Bombers face Box Hill at the NEC Hangar this Saturday, with the first bounce set for 4pm AEDT.

While the practice match won't be streamed, fans are recommended to stay updated via the @EssendonVFL account on X/Twitter throughout the game.

Essendon VFL practice match squad v Box Hill

GUERNSEY No. FULL NAME
2 Sam Draper
8 Ben Hobbs
9 Dylan Shiel
10 Sam Weideman
15 Jayden Laverde
18 Lewis Hayes
19 Nick Hind
24 Nick Bryan
30 Nate Caddy
33 Alwyn Davey Jnr
36 Jayden Davey
38 Archie Roberts
39 Vigo Visentini
50 Jackson Hately
52 Ricky Monti
53 Jack Peris
58 Jared Eckersley
68 Jack Jedwab
72 Mac Hallows
73 Matthew Foley
77 Bailey Scott
78 Michael Kiraly
80 Solomon McKay
81 Campbell Gray
83 Oskar Smartt