ADELAIDE has wielded the axe ahead of its must-win clash with Geelong on Thursday night, while the Cats have lost three to injury.

The Crows have dropped Curtly Hampton, Darcy Fogarty and Myles Poholke for the crucial encounter, while veteran midfielder Richard Douglas misses with an ankle injury.

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The changes pave the way for star forward Eddie Betts to return from a hamstring injury, while important defender Daniel Talia is included in the squad despite a foot problem.

Crows coach Don Pyke was non-committal on whether Talia would actually pass a late fitness test to take on the Cats, but said he would give him "as much time as we can".

MATCH PREVIEW: Crows v Cats

Riley Knight also returns for his third game this year, having not been seen since round six, while Rory Atkins and Lachie Murphy are included in the side.

There is mixed news on the injury front for Geelong, with dangerous forward Dan Menzel to return from almost three months out due to a groin problem.

But Harry Taylor misses with foot soreness, replaced by Wylie Buzza, while youngster Sam Simpson also comes into the team for his first game of the year.

Lachie Fogarty and Jordan Murdoch both miss due to injury.

Thursday, July 12

Adelaide v Geelong at Adelaide Oval, 7.20pm ACST

ADELAIDE

In: E.Betts, R.Knight, R.Atkins, L.Murphy

Out: R.Douglas (ankle), C.Hampton, D.Fogarty, M.Poholke

GEELONG

In: W.Buzza, D.Menzel, S.Simpson

Out: H.Taylor (foot), L.Fogarty (groin), J.Murdoch (head)