St Kilda has named its first extended squad of the 2026 AFLW season for Sunday's Marvel Stadium clash with Carlton.

Two Saints will pull on the red, white and black for the first time, with draftee Abby Hobson and former Hawk Sophie Butterworth confirmed for the season opener.

Hobson kicked 20 goals in 13 outings for Gippsland last year before joining the Saints at pick 42, and will join forces in the forward half with Butterworth, who spent the last two seasons with Hawthorn before crossing to RSEA Park.

New skipper Serene Watson is set to lead the team out for the first time alongside vice-captain Tyanna Smith, fresh off a strong performance in Australia's dominant win over Ireland at North Sydney Oval. 

Winger Molly McDonald (foot) is the only Saint unavailable through injury.

St Kilda's final team for the historic Marvel Stadium Spud's Game double-header will be announced at 5pm AEST on Friday.

Tickets to Spud's Game start from just $27, allowing access to both matches. Click here to secure yours!