Port Adelaide coach Ken Hinkley has been effusive in his praise of mid-year recruit Quinton Narkle and the Mid-Season Draft concept after Narkle excelled in his Power debut against his former side, Geelong, on Thursday night at Adelaide Oval.
Narkle, who played 41 games for Geelong between 2018-22 and was a fringe-best-22 player, was selected No. 11 by Port Adelaide during May's Mid-Season Draft.
Narkle capped his debut with two majors, 13 disposals, two inside-50s, and five score involvements.
Originally not selected to play on Thursday, Narkle received the call-up on the day of the game, as noted by Hinkley during his post-game press conference.
"Yeah, he got a bit of luck, unfortunately, Junior (Rioli) gets crook, pulls out, (Narkle) gets knowledge that he's playing today and it's his first game two weeks after he arrives," Hinkley said as he addressed the media.
Hinkley had plenty of praise for the concept of a mid-year draft and lauded Narkle's character and approach after arriving at Alberton.
"I think what it shows, again, is the Mid-Season Draft has got some great benefits in it for everyone if you do your work well and you identify what you need," Hinkley continued.
"There's been a number of players already play from the Mid-Season Draft, I think it works really well for people who are desperate and keen to make the most of their opportunity.
"[Narkle is a] high-quality person, brave enough to take it on (in his debut), he certainly gives himself a chance."
Port Adelaide's win over Geelong on Thursday represented the club's 11th-straight victory, with the Power sitting pretty in first spot on the ladder.
Hinkley's brigade will now enjoy their bye before preparing to take on Essendon at the MCG in Round 16.
