This weekend's state game between the SANFL and VFL will set the stage for Mid-Season Draft hopefuls and ex-AFL names to make their case in front of AFL scouts just over a month out from this year's mid-year talent intake.
Last year's clash, which saw the South Australians claim a 14-point victory, featured now-AFL-listed quartet Ben Jepson, Jack Henderson, Harry Boyd and Ned Long, with the latter earning a top-flight reprieve via last year's Mid-Season Draft.
While all of Jepson, Henderson and Boyd were left to wait until the following summer's Supplemental Selection Period, their outings in the showcase game added to career-best campaigns at the state league level that would eventually earn them AFL contracts.
Fellow SSP train-ons Dom Brew, Brayden Crossley and Baynen Lowe also played in the 2024 game.
This year's clash between the VFL and SANFL will again see some of the country's best non-AFL-listed talent flex their value on a higher platform, with some already having AFL experience and others looking to build their case in the hope of a promotion to the top level.
Here we've previewed six of the lesser-known players to keep an eye on during Saturday's game at Barossa Park ahead of the 2025 Mid-Season Draft.
6. Jez McLennan (SANFL, Port Adelaide)
The former Gold Coast flanker was one of the major movers during the SANFL's off-season, swapping the blue, white and red of Central Districts in favour of a venture to Alberton.
McLennan is well-versed on the state game stage, having taken out both Fos Williams Medals in the SANFL's two outings against the VFL and WAFL last year.
Set to work in a defensive third alongside fellow half-backs Matt Ling and Flynn Perez, McLennan could be the focal point in switching defence into attack for the Croweaters.
Saturday's showcase game could be the needed reminder McLennan sends to AFL scouts to prove he has what it takes to return to, and thrive at, the top level.
