Brisbane will unveil another promising father-son selection in 2023, with young midfielder Jaspa Fletcher tipped to make his AFL debut in Round 14 against Sydney.
Fletcher joined the Lions through the first round of last year's National Draft at Pick 12, 10 selections after Will Ashcroft was taken under the league's father-son rule.
Fletcher's draft campaign concluded early after a crack was discovered in his back, with the teenager facing a delayed start to his pre-season as a Lion.
The son of Adrian Fletcher and member of Brisbane's Academy, Fletcher has shown promise at the VFL level across 10 appearances so far this year, averaging 16.5 disposals, 4.3 marks, 3.1 inside 50s and 1.6 clearances per game along with eight goals for the season.
Fletcher's maiden year at Springfield so far culminated with a 27-disposal, 12-mark and two-goal game against Coburg in Round 9 of the VFL.
The club confirmed on Thursday that Fletcher will get his first glimpse of top flight football on Friday night when the Lions host Sydney at the Gabba.
โFirstly, to Fages (coach Chris Fagan), the coaching staff and anyone else on the match committee I really appreciate the opportunity,โ Fletcher told the playing group, per the club's website.
โTo the boys for being so welcoming not just this year but last year as well when Will (Ashcroft) and I came did some of the preseason, I can't wait to run out with you tomorrow.โ
Capable of playing across all three lines of the field, Fletcher will become Brisbane's second debutant of 2023 when he plays in his first game, following the impressive Ashcroft.
Another son of a gun debuts ๐
Jaspa Fletcher will run out for his first AFL game tomorrow night against the Swans! Read more here ๐ฒ https://t.co/9SDfPNQLSO pic.twitter.com/FEH37Fzur9
— Brisbane Lions (@brisbanelions) June 15, 2023
Fletcher's inclusion comes after veteran pair Daniel Rich and Jack Gunston decided to stand down for selection after a difficult run of form. The pair won't play in the VFL, instead entering a training block to allow their fitness levels to return to the required level before eyeing a comeback.
The Lions aren't expected to be the only side blooding new talent in Friday's clash, with Sydney Mid-Season Draft recruit Jack Buller also expected to make his debut just weeks after joining the club from Western Australia.
Teams for Friday's game will be confirmed at 6:20pm (AEST) on Thursday evening.
