The Brisbane Lions have made just one change to their side ahead of Saturday's clash with the Richmond Tigers.

Darcy Gardiner, who made his debut earlier this season, returns to the side to replace the injured Jack Redden (leg)

Redden, who was due to play his 113th consecutive game from debut this week, drawing him level with Steve Wallis as the fourth-longest streak from debut in VFL/AFL history, faces an extended stint on the sidelines with a suspected stress fracture in his left ankle

Gardiner, who was rested last week, has played 9 games for the Lions since making his debut in Round 5.

Saturday will not only be Gardiner's first run on the MCG, it will also be the first time the Lions have graced the hallowed turf so far this season. 

The occasion will also be a memorable one for defender, Ryan Harwood, who is set to play his 50th AFL match.

The Lions take on Richmond at the MCG, Saturday afternoon at 1.45pm.

View the final Lions team for Round 16