Josh Battle and Ed Phillips will join the Saints’ senior line-up in Morwell today with key midfielders Jade Gresham and Seb Ross put on ice for Round 1.

The Saints have opted not to risk the star duo in Sunday’s final Marsh Series clash after both reported minor soreness after the team’s main training session on Friday.

With the importance of the pair to the Saints’ engine room, and the fact both have enjoyed three strong hitouts over the past month, the club opted not to take any chances and replace them in the 24-man side with Battle and Phillips.

Battle looms as as versatile weapon for coach Brett Ratten this season after spending time in the midfield group during summer training following a breakout year in defence. While the hard-running Phillips was one of the Saints’ best in last week’s practice match against the Hawks.

Meanwhile, a host of experienced Saints and promising youngsters pressed their claims for a Round 1 berth in a VFL practice match against Collingwood VFL on Saturday. 

READ: Marsh, Hind star in VFL Practice Match

The Saints and Magpies clash at 3.50pm in a perfect dress rehearsal for Round 1.