Paul Curtis is expected to reprise his role inside forward 50 against Richmond on Sunday in Hobart, having served his one-match suspension for striking.

Despite missing Round 22 as well as three games earlier in the season, the No.25 is eyeing off a career-best return in front of goal for a single season.

His 30 goals from 17 appearances in 2025 sits equal with his 2024 tally, with two rounds still to come this season.

Captain Jy Simpkin will also be in line to return if he can shake off a knee issue and prove his fitness this week.

The midfielder has been sidelined for the past two rounds, and he would be a welcome addition for the Roos as they look to do the double over the Tigers.

Untried ruckman Taylor Goad was one of North Melbourne's best afield in the VFL team's defeat to Frankston on Sunday.

Continuing to elevate his output, the 20-year-old notched 34 hitouts, 20 disposals, eight clearances and six marks to put his name in the mix for a late AFL call-up.

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VFL R20 match highlights: North Melbourne v Frankston

The Kangaroos and Dolphins clash in Round 20

Fellow talls Finnbar Maley and Matt Whitlock were also strong against the Dolphins at Arden Street Oval.

Maley slotted a team-high three goals from his 14 disposals and seven marks, while Whitlock impressed again ahead of the ball, kicking two goals from 13 touches.

Will Phillips put in another solid shift for the reserves, finishing with 22 possessions, 10 tackles and 10 clearances to raise his hand for a recall.

Robert Hansen jnr may also be on the verge of being slotted back into Alastair Clarkson's 23, having travelled as an emergency to Canberra for the club's Round 22 clash with Greater Western Sydney.

If fit, Eddie Ford could potentially also be added to the side for a season debut as a replacement for the concussed Riley Hardeman.

Ford has been used as an intercepting defender throughout the VFL season but will need to shake off a hamstring issue to be a chance of heading to Tasmania.