AFL: New deal takes Greater Western Sydney Giants rising star Isaac Cumming through to free agency

The Giants have secured two of their top young talents as they look to return to the finals for a second-straight season.

Isaac Cumming will be a Giant until at least the end of the 2024 season after signing a new two-year deal. Picture: Getty Images

Emerging Giants defender Isaac Cumming has inked a fresh two-year deal that takes him through to free agency in 2024 after a breakout campaign where he played every game.

The 23-year-old is a backline staple for Leon Cameron’s team these days after Zac Williams’ defection to Carlton coincided with Heath Shaw two seasons ago.

Cumming has picked up where he left off last season, averaging 23 disposals, seven rebound 50s and six intercept possessions in a strong start to this year.

He played only nine games in his first four seasons but has impressed Greater Western Sydney’s head of football Jason McCartney with his rapid development in the past 18 months.

“Isaac had to bide his time, but he also had some hamstring issues and different things with his body, but the opportunity opened up with Zac departing and Heath finishing up,” McCartney told News Corp.

Isaac Cumming, left with Callan Ward, is an important piece of the Giants’ defence. Picture: Getty Images

“He had a strong pre-season leading into last year and did all his match play against Toby (Greene), which is a handy grounding, then he just gained confidence week-by-week.

“He had almost 30 possessions in his third game last year against Melbourne and just built from there. He defends well, has super-good athleticism, breaks the line with his speed and has great penetration by foot.”

After battling some self-doubt in his early seasons, McCartney said the regular exposure at senior level was vital to Cumming realising his potential.

“He’s pretty reliable and I’ve got no doubt he believes in himself now, whereas when he started out there was a bit of, ‘Am I ready?”,” he said.

“But he played every game last year and by playing games and consistent AFL footy as a young player; you gain belief and you’re away then.”

Ryan Angwin, pictured between fellow first-round draftees Conor Stone (left) and Tanner Bruhn, has committed to another two seasons as a Giant. Picture: Getty Images

Joining Cumming in re-signing is untried wingman Ryan Angwin, the third of the Giants’ trio of first-round draft picks in 2020, behind Tanner Bruhn and Conor Stone.

Angwin doesn’t turn 20 until mid-December and McCartney is excited about his upside.

“Ryan was stiff last year not to get a game, because he had hamstring soreness at the time of that Geelong game (in round 21), so he was unfortunately unavailable, but he would’ve played,” he said.

“He was pretty light when he came in but he’s put on some size now and has great running ability – good speed, good endurance – so he’s perfect for the wing and flank roles.

“I’d expect him to play some AFL football this year.”