GOLD Coast recruit Jarrad Grant is back in the main training group but unlikely to play round one.

Grant fractured his wrist in a cycling accident on January 23 and has been forced to watch the majority of training from the sidelines since.

The 26-year-old has returned to the main group and is expected to play his first match in Suns colours in the NEAFL against Aspley on March 12.

This will be one day after Gold Coast's final NAB Challenge match against Adelaide.

It is then hoped Grant will play in the NEAFL the following week, leaving him available for round one selection.

However, after missing two to three weeks of training when the injury was initially done, the Suns think he may need a third match at the lower level – depending on form and fitness – before being considered for the seniors.

Grant was recruited as a delisted free agent from the Western Bulldogs in the off-season to fill the third tall forward's role and is in strong consideration to be in Gold Coast's best 22.

The Suns are also trying to figure out the best option for their second tall target alongside Tom Lynch for round one against Essendon.

Sam Day and Peter Wright are locked in a head-to-head battle for the position and will get another chance to stake their claims against West Coast in Thursday's NAB Challenge match.

Wright looked the more dangerous against the Brisbane Lions in the Suns' only NAB Challenge game, but Day provided more forward pressure, leaving coach Rodney Eade with some headaches.

The Suns are expected to be missing up to a dozen of their best players for the trip to Perth and will be captained for the first time by veteran Jarrod Harbrow.