Our Rookie Rankings have a new leader with just three rounds remaining in the season, while the bottom two are pressing their case for spots in the top six.
The weekend's results saw no movement besides the top two swapping spots, while a pair of debutants impressed to earn honourable mentions from Round 21.
Adelaide defender James Borlase put up one of the best maiden matches we've seen this season, while Bombers' prized pick Elijah Tsatas was also impressive in a heart-stopping one-point win over West Coast.
Criteria:ย For ourย Rookie Rankings, we are selecting players who have made their debut this season. Other players who may still be eligible for a Rising Star nomination but have already made their debut prior to the 2023 season will not be considered.
I.e. Rising Star eligible players such asย Sam Darcy,ย Finn Callaghanย andย Jye Amissย are ineligible, having already played anย AFLย match prior to Round 1, 2023.ย
Round 21 Honourable Mentions:
James Borlase (Adelaide)
Sam Banks (Richmond)
Oliver Hollands (Carlton)
Ryan Maric (West Coast)
Elijah Tsatas (Essendon)
Dante Visentini (Port Adelaide)
1. Harry Sheezel (+1)
Moves back into first spot after spending the majority of the past two months in second. Sheezel held the lead for the opening half of the season before Ashcroft took his place, only for the Roos youngster to now hold top spot - likely for the rest of the year.
Sheezel managed 15 disposals and 367 metres gained against Melbourne, having started at half-back before transitioning into a more attacking role.
Defender
Disposals
Marks
Rebound50s
The North Melbourne young gun has been solid over the past few weeks and is certainly deserving of the Rising Star Award should it fall his way.
