Oakleigh Chargers midfielder Blake Drury was selected with the first selection in the 2022 NAB AFL Rookie Draft. Photo by Dylan Burns/AFL Photos.
North Melbourne has announced it will be debuting its newest name on Sunday, calling on rookie draftee Blake Drury to face the Saints at Marvel Stadium.
Following a sound draft year for the Oakleigh Chargers, Drury was brought to Arden Street with the opening pick of the 2022 Rookie Draft, joining fellow Charger George Wardlaw in trading red and blue for blue and white.
Despite standing at just 177cm and tipping the scales at 74 kgs, the 19-year-old has been lauded for his footy IQ since joining the Roos' chorus.
Drury has also proven invaluable at VFL level thus far, running through the centre of the ground, playing a role up forward, as well as lending a helping hand down back.
The ex-Charger averaged north of 18 disposals per game over the course of his opening three appearances in the reserves.
The nuggety redhead was named as North Melbourne's emergency for their 90-point loss to Melbourne last Saturday before being elevated into the squad on Thursday morning in an announcement made before his teammates.
Drury is now the second Kangaroo to make their debut in 2023, joining prolific ball-winner and former Vic Metro teammate Harry Sheezel in being blooded by the Shinboners.
North Melbourne and St Kilda will do battle under the Docklands roof on Sunday at 4:40pm (AEST).