Higgins said a lot had changed since the Bushrangers crushed their country neighbours by 68 points in round one at Deakin Reserve.

“We have watched the vision of recent games and the Pioneers are very well coached by Brett Henderson and, with a number of younger players, they have clearly improved,” Higgins said.

“We will need to be at our competitive best, particularly following a disappointing game against Geelong last week.”

In a major boost, the Bushrangers welcome back 200cm ruckman Max Lynch.

He has been playing nationals for the Allies and NSW and will provide the visitors with another formidable big-man.

“Max will play this game before resuming in the national carnival next week,” Higgins said.

“He’s in great form and will play a key role for us both in the ruck and up forward.”

Former Australian basketballer Trent McMullan will make his long-awaited return from a knee injury.

“This has been a long time coming for Trent and his patience and work ethic during his recovery has been first class,” he said.

“He has been playing good football at Wodonga, and his work on the training track highlights that he is a good contested mark.

“He will also provide a focal point up forward.”

Former under-16 co-captain Harry Jones will make his TAC Cup debut as 23rd player,

“Harry has elite running power and deserves his opportunity through the middle of the ground,” he said.

“His form at local level has been really consistent and we are looking forward to seeing him at the next level.”

Matt Neagle (Wodonga Raiders) and Jayden Gallagher (Yarrawonga) also return.

Meanwhile, five Bushrangers have been selected in the Victorian Country under-16 squad to play in the national championships.

Wodonga’s Hudson Garoni, Raider Blayke St John, Shepparton United’s Zane Barzen, Shepparton Swan Ajak Dang and Shepparton’s Jordan Butts were named.

Raider Jake Bradshaw is an emergency.

“There is some real talent among the Bushrangers players and importantly they are realising that hard work is required to keep improving their football,” assistant-coach Justin McMahon said.

The Victorian Country team will start their campaign against Vic Metro at Geelong on June 26.

The squad will then depart for the Gold Coast where they will play against Western Australia on July 4 before doing battle with South Australia on July 8.