COLLINGWOOD has promoted rookies Henry Schade and Mason Cox to its senior list ahead of its opening round clash against the Western Bulldogs.

The Magpies had two spots available on their senior list, with the club to place injured defender Ben Sinclair, who recently underwent hamstring surgery, on the long-term injury list (LTI).



Collingwood also had the option of promoting a nominated rookie, making that player immediately eligible for senior selection.



Has Bucks changed enough to keep his job?

Sinclair, who suffered the serious injury in the opening JLT Community Series game against Essendon, is due back on the field in 8-12 weeks.

Once Sinclair is ready to play again he will be returned to the senior list.

Former Gold Coast defender Schade, 23, has mounted his case for round one selection, after vying with ex-Demon Lynden Dunn, based on his consistent performances across the pre-season series.

Schade, who was delisted after playing 20 games in five seasons with Gold Coast, was a solid contributor in all three JLT Community Series games.

The Magpies selected the 197cm key defender with pick No.24 in last year's Rookie Draft and already that investment appears to be paying off.

Schade positions himself well in marking contests and takes a proactive approach to defending within the Magpies' backline structure – two qualities the club values highly.

Cox, the American-born ruckman, kicked 17 goals from 11 matches in 2016 as he established himself as a key member of the Magpies' side.

The 25-year-old kicked four goals in three JLT Series matches proving to be a dangerous target up forward, especially when utilising his 211cm frame in marking contests, and a valuable complement to Brodie Grundy in the ruck.

Collingwood's coaching staff is still working out its preferred forward structure with Darcy Moore and Jesse White the other tall options it can call upon in the Magpies' forward line.

Collingwood will open its home and away season against last year's premiers on Friday, March 24 at the MCG.



Henry Schade impressed throughout the JLT Community Series. Picture: AFL Photos

