North Melbourne will gain some valuable grunt through the midfield on Saturday night, with Jed Anderson and Paul Ahern making their returns.

The pair is among four inclusions in the Roos’ 22, presented by The Wharf Hotel, with forwards Cameron Zurhaar and Mason Wood also named.

Anderson will play his first game for the 2019 campaign, after a career-best season last year.

“I’m really excited to get out there and play my role with the team," he told North Media.

“I'm happy to play my role with the team and hopefully we can play well and get our season back on track.

“My body felt pretty good last week (in the VFL). I worked my way into the game after the first quarter, and got through pretty much all my game time within those three quarters.

“I’m hoping to come in and put that pressure on and throw my weight around in the middle, and hopefully make a few tackles and get the momentum going our way.

“It is a big game and we want to put our best foot forward."

North’s number 3 has overcome a hamstring injury to make himself available, while Ahern was a strong performer in several VFL practice matches and the JLT Series.

Zurhaar will line up for his first appearance this year, and tenth overall, with Wood given another chance to prove himself after he was omitted in Round 2.

First-year standout Bailey Scott will be rested, while Dom Tyson, Tom Campbell and Ben McKay have all been omitted.

View the full team below.

The North 22 will hit the track for open training on Friday morning from 11.30am, with fans welcome to attend. Memberships and merchandise will be available.