Carlton’s rivalry with Richmond won’t be headlining Round 1 in 2014 – with the MCG unavailable for the traditional season opener.

Season 2014 is set to kick off on March 14, with the opening round spread over a fortnight.

While the fixture is yet to be released, AFL fixturing boss Simon Lethlean has told the Herald Sun that it’s likely Carlton and Richmond will be locked in to kick off Round 2.

That means the traditional Easter Thursday clash between the Blues and the Tigers could be in doubt – with Easter falling just three weeks later in Round 5.

Meanwhile Carlton CEO Greg Swann says he’s confident new recruit Dale Thomas will run out in Carlton’s opening game next season.

Speaking to SEN today, Swann moved to dispel any questions over Daisy’s fitness.

“He (Dale Thomas) went off to see a number of surgeons and everybody gave him the green light,” Swann said.

“We’re confident that he’ll be fine and he will play Round 1. He will join in the pre-season when everyone else does.”

Swann says he’s also hopeful veteran Heath Scotland will play on next year.

The 33-year-old is yet to make a decision on his future.

“It’s up to Heath really,” Swann said. 

“We’re happy for him to go on and if he feels he can, he will.”