Crows Shine as All-Australian Debate Heats Up
The All-Australian squad is always one of the most talked-about announcements of the AFL season, and this year is no different. Adelaide has emerged as the big winner, leading the way with five players named in the 44-man squad, while some of the game’s biggest stars have been left out, sparking plenty of debate.
One of the most surprising names in the mix is Izak Rankine. Despite serving a four-week suspension for a homophobic slur, the Crows’ midfielder has been selected. He’s currently overseas, training and holidaying in Europe, but his inclusion ensures his name remains firmly in the spotlight as the AFL Awards approach. For Adelaide fans, the recognition of Rankine alongside Jordan Dawson, Riley Thilthorpe, Josh Worrell, and Mark Keane highlights the club’s strong year.
The competition for spots has been fierce, particularly in the ruck and key defensive positions. St Kilda’s Cal Wilkie, Collingwood’s Darcy Cameron, and North Melbourne’s Tristan Xerri were all considered unlucky to miss out, while Melbourne’s Max Gawn has once again underlined his dominance. If selected, Gawn will join a very exclusive group as just the seventh player to achieve eight All-Australian selections. Alongside him, Brodie Grundy and Fremantle’s Luke Jackson have been rewarded for strong seasons.
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Leadership is another interesting storyline. Gawn, who previously captained the team in 2021, is a strong chance to wear the armband again. But he’s not the only candidate—Adelaide’s Jordan Dawson, Brisbane defender Harris Andrews, Gold Coast’s Noah Anderson, and last year’s captain Marcus Bontempelli are all in the conversation.
At the other end of the ground, Hawthorn veteran Jack Gunston has captured headlines. At 33 years old, he’s produced one of his best seasons yet, booting 62 goals to earn a place in the squad. Richmond’s Nick Vlastuin, another sentimental pick, has been named despite never previously making the final team, even after three premierships with the Tigers.
When looking at the clubs represented, Adelaide, Brisbane, Gold Coast, and the Bulldogs each boast five squad members, while several big clubs—including Carlton, Essendon, Port Adelaide, North Melbourne, and West Coast—were left without a single nominee. For Carlton in particular, it’s a sign of just how far they’ve slipped after missing the top eight this season.
The final 22 will be announced on Thursday night at the AFL Awards in Melbourne, but already the omissions have been generating plenty of conversation. Players like Bontempelli, Lachie Neale, Zak Butters, and Tom Green missing out shows just how competitive the selection process has become. And with 11 potential debutants in the mix, there’s a clear sense of a new generation breaking through while some established names are overlooked.
So as the countdown continues, the focus will be on whether the selectors reward experience, form, or the next wave of talent. One thing is certain—the All-Australian debate is alive and well, and fans will be arguing over the choices long after the team is revealed.
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