DEFENDER Jesse Smith returns from the football wilderness for North Ballarat against Sandringham in the VFL in Ballarat on Sunday.The highly talented North Melbourne-listed youngster has not played since tearing a hamstring against Tasmania on May 10.He has missed five VFL matches and also the opportunity to return to the Kangaroos, where Smith is so well regarded that when fit is an automatic selection.North Ballarat had planned to ease Smith back through the reserves a few weeks ago, but twice he has had to withdraw.Selkirk Roosters football manager Marg Richards said an extra couple of weeks on the training track meant Smith was able to go straight back in the seniors.She said instead of being limited to playing about 50 per cent of a match - the reason he would play reserves - Smith was right to play 70 to 80 per cent against Sandringham.While Smith is a definite starter, Stephen Owen, Ben Taylor and Cruize Garlett have also been added to an extended squad, which will be finalised after training tonight.Garlett, who is on the Kangaroos' rookie list, is hoping to find himself back in favour after being dropped to the reserves for a week.Sandringham will go into the match without Melbourne ruckman Jeff White, Demons-listed Cale Morton and JJ Liston Trophy winner Ezra Poyas.White was looming as a major threat for North Ballarat and big challenge for Roosters ruckman Orren Stephenson.White dominated the ruck in a six-point loss to Werribee in a performance which saw him have 23 possessions and seven marks.Morton had 28 possessions playing on a wing and as a midfielder.Poyas is always menacing against the Roosters.Sandringham will still boast Melbourne veteran Adem Yze, Daniel Bell, Nathan Carroll, John Meesen and former North Ballarat Rebels James Frawley, who will play down back.