Former professional cricketer Zak Evans is reportedly exploring a football career, with clubs lining up to meet him.
Evans, who represented Victoria at Sheffield Shield level and the Melbourne Renegades, was a state-contracted fast bowler between 2017 and 2023.
According toย Channel 9'sย Tom Morris, Essendon and North Melbourne have joined Geelong, Gold Coast and St Kilda in indicating interest in the 24-year-old, who is managed by prominent agent Paul Connors.
Evans is now managed by Paul Connors. More clubs have expressed interest tooโฆ Essendon & North Melbourne. Looks like heโll have a choice. A nice spot to be for the 24 year old. @FootyonNine https://t.co/UtnuIVby9q
— Tom Morris (@tommorris32) April 19, 2024
Evans is seen as a running defender and on-baller with a ready-made physique for the top level and was tipped to go in between picks 30 to 40 in his draft year, but opted to go down the cricket path.
He can be selected as a Category B rookie because he hasn't played any competitive football for more than three years.
"He hasn't strapped on the boots since his last year at Xavier College in 2018, where he played alongside Bailey Smith and against Rhylee West, James Rowbottom, Toby Bedford and the King twins," reports Morris.
"Recruiters were keen on him at the time, but he was already contracted with Victoria and committed to cricket."
Evans isn't the first cricketer in recent times to receive interest in a code switch, with Western Bulldogs defender James O'Donnell successfully doing so in 2023.
Collingwood signed Hobart Hurricanes and Eastern Ranges product Wil Parker earlier this year while Renegades all-rounder Will Sutherland has garnered interest in the past.
