Having missed Collingwood’s last start triumph over the GWS Giants, Ball’s timely inclusion is undoubtedly a boost for a Magpies outfit poised to line up against one of the elite midfields in the competition.
The Magpies are further bolstered by Lynch’s return, with the 30-year old’s versatility and strength as an aerial target providing an added string to the Black and White bow.
With Ball and Lynch confirmed as inclusions, emerging ruck Jarrod Witts, first year forward Ben Kennedy and utility Paul Seedsman have been named as emergencies, emphasising the impressive depth at coach Nathan Buckley’s disposal.
Reserve your seat at Sunday's blockbuster now.
Collingwood v Essendon
Round 19
Sunday 4 August
MCG, 4.40pm
Collingwood
B: Nathan Brown, Nick Maxwell, Lachlan Keeffe
HB: Harry O'Brien, Heath Shaw, Marley Williams
C: Steele Sidebottom, Luke Ball, Sam Dwyer
HF: Jamie Elliott, Quinten Lynch, Jarryd Blair
F: Dayne Beams, Travis Cloke, Tyson Goldsack
Foll: Brodie Grundy, Scott Pendlebury, Dane Swan
Int: Brent Macaffer, Ben Reid, Josh Thomas, Ben Sinclair
Emg: Jarrod Witts, Ben Kennedy, Paul Seedsman
IN: Luke Ball, Quinten Lynch
OUT: Ben Kennedy, Jarrod Witts (omitted)
