North Melbourne star ruckman Tristan Xerri will remain a Shinboner for a further two seasons after putting pen to paper on an extension of his current deal at Arden Street.
Taken at Pick 72 in the 2017 National Draft, Xerri emerged as one of the AFL's best ruckmen last year, earning selection in the 2024 All-Australian squad.
After his breakout season, the 70-game tall has continued his dominance into 2025, remaining one of the premier tappers in the competition.
Averaging a career-high hitouts and clearances per game this year, Xerri is one of the crucial players behind North Melbourne's improving form, and is making a case for his maiden All-Australian blazer.
Already locked away until 2029, the Roos have leapt to continue Xerri's commitment to the club, with the 26-year-old furthering his deal until the end of the 2031 season.
The fresh extension will see Xerri play in blue and while stripes until the age of 32.
North Melbourne head of football talent Brady Rawlings said the club were "incredibly pleased" to retain Xerri for a further period.
"Tristan has become a pivotal part of our team, not just with his on-field performance but also his leadership and work ethic,โ Rawlings said.
"His commitment to the club for another two years speaks volumes about his belief in our direction and the culture we're building.
โWe're incredibly pleased to have him locked in for the long haul."
A mammoth task faces the Roos this week after coming off a promising victory against Carlton, with Xerri to do battle against another gun ruckman in Lloyd Meek as North Melbourne head to Launceston to take on the Hawks.
While winning just four games and recording a draw so far in 2025, the Roos have shown encouraging signs of improvement as the club looks to finally end its rebuilding phase of the 2020s.
