Despite boasting home-ground advantage against North on Sunday, Adelaide is expecting a hard-fought clash.

"They are a high quality team and the Preliminary Finalists from last year, and they are a pretty strong over the ball team with their contested stuff," ruckman Sam Jacobs said.

"Their forward line is also pretty powerful. That's been added to again by bringing in Jarrad Waite, so we expect a pretty contested, high-pace game."

The Crows will be boosted by the availability of Scott Thompson and Sam Kerridge for the season opener.

The pair have recovered from minor hamstring complaints, but will need to pass the ultimate test, that of the coaches before being picked.

Thompson in particular will be vital to Adelaide's chances.

"He (Thompson) will be available so I think it'll be up to Walshy (Phil Walsh) and the coaches whether they're comfortable with the work he's done," Jacobs added.

"Thommo's obviously a pretty important player to us. He's played for 16 years or whatever it is, so I think he's got enough pre-seasons under his belt.

"He's obviously a real professional - if he comes in I've got no doubt he can come in and play his role."

Brad Crouch was ruled out last week after undergoing foot surgery, and is set to spend the next two months on the sidelines.

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