Essendon VFL Captain Xavier O'Neill and Vice-Captain Jackson Hately have been named in the VFL squad to face the SANFL in a representative game next month.

O'Neill and Hately have been chosen in the 50-player squad after showcasing stellar form throughout the Bombers' pre-season games, making strong impressions since joining the club in the off-season.

The match marks the VFL's return to representative football after a seven-year absence and their first matchup with the SANFL since 2016, taking place as part of the AFL's Gather Round weekend.

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VFL | O'Neill steps up

Xavier O'Neill talks ahead of the start of the 2024 season.

A finalised team of 23 players is set to be announced closer to the fixture.

The VFL's clash against the SANFL will take place at Stratarama Stadium in Glenelg on Saturday, April 6, with the first bounce at 12:40pm local time (1:10pm AEDT).