AFL premiers land cricket star in massive coup

Collingwood has officially finalised their 2024 playing list, signing former Victorian and Hobart Hurricanes cricketer Wil Parker.

Parker, who played BBL for the Hurricanes, as well as Sheffield Shield for Victoria, joins the club as a category B rookie, after choosing to give away the bat and ball for the footy.

Back in 2019, the 21-year-old was playing for the Eastern Ranges, making him eligible for the 2020 draft.

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However, he decided at the time to pursue his cricketing goals, landing a spot on Victoria's list, before taking up the opportunity to move south and play with the Hurricanes in the BBL.

Parker made his first-class debut for Victoria in 2020.

Flash forward to 2024, Parker's limited cricketing opportunities have spurred his eagerness to return to football.

Collingwood footy boss Graham Wright spoke highly on Parker's assets, noting that he "will fit in seamlessly" to the Pies' elite sporting envionment, considering his background.

"Wil was a talented junior footballer before pursuing cricket. He's now in a position where he is ready to return to football," Wright said in a club statement.

"Wil has experience in an elite sporting environment and will fit seamlessly into our program.

"He will gradually integrate into training over the coming month or two as he transitions into a full-time AFL program.

"We're pleased to have Wil join our program ahead of the upcoming season."

Parker's signing officially completes the reigning premiers' 2024 playing list.

The Pies' final lists spots were hotly contested, with Lachie Sullivan, former Saint Jack Bytel and former Bomber Josh Eyre cementing their place on Collingwood's list.

Collingwood will take part in the AFL's new Opening Round fixture, taking place the week before round one, facing the GWS Giants.