This year's draft will see another injection of youth into all 18 clubs, bringing an x-factor and unpredictability which can be vital in achieving success.

However, with the majority of modern day premiership sides boasting an average age of 24+, clubs also need experienced and reliable veterans to help lead them to victory.

Here isย Zero Hanger'sย Top 10 players aged 30 and over ahead of the 2020 season.

An honourable mention goes to 37-year-old Shaun Burgoyne who couldn't quite crack our top 10 but deserves a mention as the league's oldest player.

4. Alex Rance

Despite missing the entirety of the 2019 season due to an ACL tear, Alex Rance will still be considered one of the top defenders in the game when he makes his return. Although Rance couldn't contribute to Richmond's premiership campaign on the field, his efforts to provide support and leadership off the field cannot be understated.

In the aftermath of their 2019 success, Richmond players noted how influential Rance was behind the scenes as a mentor, with the five-time All-Australian helping to coach their backline.

Prior to his injury, Rance was dominant, ranking first in intercepts and second in on-percenters in 2018 and was instrumental in the 2017 Grand Final win, locking down Adelaide's dangerous forwards to finish third in the Norm Smith Medal tally.

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - MAY 6: Alex Rance of the Tigers handpasses the ball during the 2018 AFL round seven match between the Richmond Tigers and the Fremantle Dockers at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on May 6, 2018 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Adam Trafford/AFL Media/Getty Images)