AFL: Carlton forward Zac Fisher extends contract for two more years after purple patch of form

One of the underrated members of Carlton’s thriving forward line has signed an extension a year before he was due to come out of contract.

Zac Fisher’s become an important cog in Carlton’s finals-bound side. Michael Klein

In-form Carlton forward Zac Fisher has extended his contract by two years to cap an impressive fortnight.

The 24-year-old, who’s amassed 50 disposals across his last two games, was already contracted for next season but is now tied to the club until the end of 2025.

The new deal is the latest evidence of how far Fisher’s stocks have risen since swinging forward after playing in just one of the first 10 rounds in the Covid-interrupted season two years ago.

He joins Sam Docherty, Charlie Curnow and Nic Newman as the only Blues to appear in all 15 matches this year, while his 13 goals are already a career-best haul.

Fisher is averaging 19 disposals, six score involvements and five groundball-gets per game.

Carlton’s once-maligned small forward corps are having an impact at the feet of Harry McKay and Curnow, with Corey Durdin and Matt Owies and, to a lesser degree, Jesse Motlop and Josh Honey also doing their bit.

Zac Fisher is enjoying a career-best season for Carlton. Picture: Michael Klein

They are allowing Fisher to roam further afield on occasion, as he did while gathering a personal-high 29 touches in the Blues’ defeat of Fremantle two weeks ago.

The West Australian’s positional flexibility is part of his appeal, with list boss Nick Austin saying this contract extension showed a strong commitment from both parties.

“Zac brings some strengths to our side that are really unique, which gives us a point of difference, and his versatility and willingness to play whatever role the team needs him to is valued highly internally,” Austin said.

“He’s a popular character around the club and puts in the work behind the scenes to continuously get the best out of himself and his teammates.

“To sign an extension with still a year to run on his contract tells you everything you need to know about his commitment to Carlton, and we are excited to see him continue to grow his game over the next three years.”

Originally published as AFL: Carlton forward Zac Fisher extends contract for two more years after purple patch of form