Two state league stars set to battle it out during Sunday's State Game between the WAFL and SANFL have confirmed AFL interest ahead of this month's Mid-Season Draft.
This weekend's clash at Optus Stadium between Western Australia and South Australia is a prime chance for top players from either competition to showcase their value just over a week out from the mid-year intake for AFL clubs.
Geelong's Mitch Hardie and Sydney's Jack Buller both secured AFL list spots following last year's State Game, while Collingwood's John Noble followed a similar path five years ago before joining the Magpies from West Adelaide.
Among this year's crop of State Game representatives is Fos Williams Medal winner Jez McLennan, who has continued his strong stint with Central Districts in the SANFL this year.
McLennan, formerly listed with the Gold Coast Suns, is averaging 20.3 disposals, 7.2 marks and 3.2 rebound 50s with the Bulldogs across his six appearances.
The 23-year-old's best-on-ground performance against the VFL last month during Gather Round has been McLennan's highlight for the year so far, with the half-back hoping to replicate that effort this weekend.
McLennan's management has held talks with AFL clubs in the build-up to the Mid-Season Draft, with the former Suns player noting this week that "the fire still burns to play at AFL level".
"I'm 23, I've still got a bit left in the tank," McLennan told Checkside Chats.
"The fire still burns to play at AFL level. I'm working hard and doing everything I can at the moment.
"I'm still a Centrals player and I'm still going to do everything I can to hopefully reach a premiership this year. We'll see what comes of it.
"There's been a bit of talk (with AFL clubs), but you take it with a grain of salt. It's all talk until it actually happens.
"I won't say too much. There's been a bit through my manager and we'll just see what comes of it."
Among McLennan's opponents for this year's SA vs WA State Game is Peel Thunder key defender Jacob Blight, who has emerged as one of the leading Mid-Season Draft prospects for 2024.
Since crossing from Claremont ahead of the 2023 season, Blight has been arguably the premier tall backman in the WAFL.
His form to start this year has rightfully gained interest from AFL clubs, with Blight continuing to hold interviews with clubs ahead of the Mid-Season Draft.
One club that hasn't spoken to Blight is North Melbourne, who currently hold Pick 1 for the draft and could consider adding to their key defensive stocks.
Speaking toย 10 News Perth,ย Blight revealed the Roos are yet to show interest less than a fortnight from the draft.
"Everyone thinks North, but I actually haven't spoken to North Melbourne," the 23-year-old said.
"But there has been a handful (of interest). I had a busy week last week with interviews and I have a few more coming up as well.
"I'm just very grateful to be in this sort of position and have that recognition."
Richmond (currently Pick 2), West Coast (Pick 3), Hawthorn (Pick 4) and the Western Bulldogs (Pick 8) are among the clubs who could be interested in adding a key defender to their list this month.
Other players set to feature in Sunday's State Game who could also garner Mid-Season Draft interest include East Fremantle's Jed Hagan and Woodville-West Torrens' Luke Beecken.
The 2024 State Game will take place at Optus Stadium on Sunday, while the Mid-Season Draft is scheduled for Wednesday, May 29.
