Richmond’s Shai Bolton was a surprise omission from the AFL’s 22under22 side.
Bolton has had a breakout season averaging a career-best 16.1 disposals and 3.5 clearances to go with his 12 goals.
The 21-year-old started his career as a small forward but has cemented his spot as a midfielder playing big minutes in the absence of Dion Prestia and Shane Edwards.
Terry Wallace says Bolton’s 2020 performances deserved selection alongside Tigers teammates Liam Baker and Noah Balta.
“I’m always big on if you want somebody in, you’ve got to take somebody out,” Wallace told SEN’s Dwayne’s World.
“I’m putting Shai Bolton into my under 22 team, I thought he should have got a guernsey in that particular side.
“When Prestia and Edwards weren’t available, Shai Bolton’s one of the reasons why Richmond are now favourites, so I thought he should have been in the under 22s side.”
Wallace would leave out GWS midfielder Tim Taranto to accommodate Bolton’s inclusion.
“If I had to take one out, it would have been Tim Taranto,” the former Richmond coach said.
“Best and fairest winner last year with GWS, missed early games coming back from that injury.
“Fantastic last year, a brilliant player, but it’s only on this season. I thought Shai Bolton had a better year.”
Taranto, 22, managed 11 games in 2020 averaging a tick over 19 disposals and four clearances.