Australian Test stars Brad Haddin and Nathan Lyon are among a host of high-profile players headlining the opening round of Sydney Grade cricket opening weekend.

Wicketkeeper Haddin and spinner Lyon will be joined by all-rounder Moises Henriques when the club competition starts on Saturday.

Steve Smith, who was controversially dropped for Australia’s three-wicket ODI loss to Zimbabwe earlier this month, is also expected to play.

“I think some of the most enjoyable cricket you play is at club level,” fellow Blues bowler Stephen O’Keefe said.

“(We’re) in it for the love of the game.”