Mann will represent the Highlanders in today’s clash with Loddon Valley, the competition he used to play in before moving to the region for university studies.

The 22-year-old, previously from Pyramid Hill, was a late call-up to the Central Highlands training squad, but has been named to start on the wing Saturday afternoon.

“Wet weather footy suits us down here, for sure, because a lot of those (Loddon Valley) boys would hardly play any wet weather footy. I know I didn’t when I was up there,” Mann said.

Mann, in his fourth season with the Demons, said he expected a tight contest between the two sides.

“I feel like the top sides in this competition are probably a little stronger but it tails off towards the bottom, being such a big league,” he said.

“The footy has changed there since I left. They have had heaps of good players come into the league, so it’s hard to tell.”

Mann’s Bungaree teammate, Marty Dufty, was a late withdrawal from the side at training on Thursday night because of a back injury. This paved the way for Clunes half-back flanker Nick Hind to be called up from the emergencies to fill a role in defence.

However, the Demons are still the best represented side in the Central Highlands team with five players in the 22, as well as senior coach Greg Middleton.

The Highlanders are chasing a third-straight win since joining the country championships following victories over Ellinbank and District and Ovens and King in recent years.

Saturday’s game kicks off at 2pm.

CENTRAL HIGHLANDS v LODDON VALLEY

at Bungaree, Saturday

Seniors: 2pm

Under-17.5 intraleague: 11.45am

Senior netball: 2.30pm