Sheezel Makes History in AFL's 22Under22 Team

The AFL Players' Association has unveiled its 22Under22 team, with Brisbane's emerging talent featuring prominently for the second consecutive year. Four Lions players, Will Ashcroft, Jaspa Fletcher, Logan Morris, and Darcy Wilmot, were selected. Ashcroft and Wilmot earned their third inclusion in the squad before turning 22.

North Melbourne's Harry Sheezel achieved a significant milestone, securing his fourth selection in the 22Under22 team. This places him in rare company, alongside other AFL stars who have reached the same feat. Western Bulldogs' Marcus Bontempelli remains the only player with five selections in the concept's 14-year history.

Following Brisbane, West Coast and North Melbourne each had three players selected. Fremantle's Murphy Reid garnered the most fan votes, appearing in 81% of submitted teams, with Hawthorn's Nick Watson close behind at 80%. Eligibility requires players to be 22 or under for the entire season and have played at least 12 games in 2026.

The 2026 AFLPA 22Under22 Final Team includes players from various clubs, with Josh Weddle, Harry Dean, and Darcy Wilmot forming the backline, and Willem Duursma, Reuben Ginbey, and Jaspa Fletcher in the half-back line. The midfield features Murphy Reid, Will Ashcroft, and Jagga Smith, while the forward line consists of Darcy Wilson, Aaron Cadman, and Colby McKercher. Logan Morris and Nick Watson lead the full forward line, supported by Nate Caddy. The ruck and rover positions are filled by Cooper Trembath and Harry Sheezel, with Harley Reid also in the centre. The interchange includes Mac Andrew, Willem Duursma, Archie Roberts, and Ryley Sanders.