North captain Jack Ziebell says the club has no intention of losing Good Friday Football, after retaining the blockbuster match for the second consecutive year.

The AFL has threatened to rotate the game between clubs, despite the fact the Roos lobbied for more than two decades for the rights to it.

“It’s awesome news. We have made it ours and don't intend to give it up," Ziebell told NMFC.com.au.

"We campaigned for it a long, long time ago and our footy club finally got it across the line last year. We deserve to keep it."

After playing the Bulldogs in the inaugural game in 2017, North will now face the Saints in Round 2, 2018.

“From the player’s point of view, we want to put on a good show, win the game, collect the four points, but more importantly get a big crowd there, and raise some money for the Good Friday Appeal and the Royal Children's Hospital. If we do that we will retain it for years to come.”

Ziebell said ladder position or club size shouldn't determine whether the Kangaroos keep the game long-term, given other other clubs like Melbourne, Essendon, Richmond, Carlton and Collingwood have all retained their respective marquee match-ups and special event games despite all experiencing several lean years on and off the field.

“We are the pioneers of Good Friday Football," Ziebell added.

"It was a fantastic occasion last year in what’s a great day for the Royal Children’s Hospital. To contribute to the lives of so many children and raise money through a game of footy is amazing.

“Playing on Good Friday is fantastic for footy lovers, because there’s not a lot else happening - so why not get along to the game? I’d encourage everyone to come along, whether you go for North or the Saints.

“If you don’t barrack for us, come along anyway, because it’s a great day and you’re supporting a great cause as well."

Sync your calendar with the 2018 fixture