Former AFL recruiter Matt Rendell has made his pick for this year’s Rising Star medal.
While Brisbane father-son Will Ashcroft is a hot favourite at $2.50 odds (with Sportsbet), Rendell believes another youngster will take home the Ron Evans Medal.
After missing most of his first season with injury, Rendell expects GWS' No.3 pick from the 2021 Draft, Finn Callaghan, to explode in his second campaign.
Rendell believes Callaghan is a “massive chance” given he’s unsure how many midfield minutes Ashcroft will get in a stacked Brisbane line-up.
“I’m interested in the Rising Star and I think the punters are,” Rendell said on SEN SA's The Run Home.
“(Will Ashcroft) is favourite, but is he going to play every game and is he going to get a real good go in the midfield?
“I’ve tipped a few people into a bloke that I think is a massive chance, Finn Callaghan at GWS.”
As well as being unsure about Ashcroft’s role, Rendell foresees Callaghan stepping into the void left by Tim Taranto and Jacob Hopper, with the youngster now a chance to play primarily on-ball.
“He’s going to be in their midfield, and I think he played five games last season because he had a lot of injuries,” Rendell said.
“With Taranto and Hopper out, he’s going to get a lot of game time and I’m telling you he’s a star.
“He was pick No. 3 in the (2021) draft and he just re-signed with them.
“If I’m having a little dabble, I’m getting on Finn Callaghan for the Rising Star.
Callaghan impressed with 22 disposals, eight score involvements, five inside 50s and two goals in the Giants' 45-point practice match win over Gold Coast on Saturday.
The Giants get their 2023 season underway against Adelaide at home on March 19.
Check out SEN’s article canvassing the leading contenders and smokeys that could win the Rising Star award in 2023 HERE.
Is Gambling a problem for you? Call Gamblers Help on 1800 858 858 or your local state gambling helpline. Gamble responsibly.