Colby McKercher Biography

North Melbourne coach Alastair Clarkson defends Colby McKercher's lack of contested numbers, arguing it's not the young gun's role.

The 21-year-old was one of North's best in last week's loss against powerhouse Geelong, gathering 23 disposals, kicking two goals and having 10 score involvements.

But he was the only player on the ground not to have a contested possession, prompting criticism from the likes of Kane Cornes.

"The really unusual part of this game is, if you had your choice, it would be everything uncontested - everyone wants the ball in space, and his role is mainly that," Clarkson said of McKercher.

"That's not his role. We're happy that he's (McKercher) playing the role. He caused some damage to the Geelong side at different stages last week, and hopefully he's a threat for Sydney."

Colby McKercher is the 2024 round nine AFL Rising Star nominee after gathering 30 disposals, including six intercept possessions, against Gold Coast in Darwin.

Colby McKercher makes his AFL debut for North Melbourne with 22 disposals (18 kicks and 4 handballs), 8 marks and 2 tackles in a 39-point loss to GWS.

North Melbourne select Colby McKercher with pick No.2 in the 2023 National Draft.