Lions star Cam Rayner’s versatility set to prove crucial to Brisbane’s premiership hopes

Cam Rayner is ready to play anywhere for a strong Brisbane Lions team expected to challenge for this year’s AFL premiership.

Brisbane star Cam Rayner has relished his pre-season move to defence, but his versatility has him ready slot into any role when the Lions start their 2023 AFL campaign next Saturday against Port Adelaide.

With the Lions have boosted their forward and midfield stocks in the off-season with the addition of Jack Gunston, Josh Dunkley and Will Ashcroft, 23-year-old Rayner has been used with great effect on Brisbane’s half-back line.

It is not a totally new position for the number one 2017 draft pick, with Rayner having spent time there during his junior days,

However, he has been glad for the refresher course in the role as he adds to his credentials and utility value.

“I’ve really enjoyed working with Harris (Andrews) and the boys in defence,” Rayner said.

“It adds to what I can do to help the team, and ‘Fages’ (coach Chris Fagan) wants players to be able to play in as many positions as possible.”

Lions star Cam Rayner has enjoyed his time in defence during the pre-season. Picture: Bradley Kanaris/Getty Images

Rayner is eager to discover if he will start in defence against Port at Adelaide Oval, but has been unable to get an answer from Fagan, who has kept his selection cards close to his chest.

However, such is the Lions’ depth this season that Rayner will be happy with a spot anywhere in Brisbane’s top 22.

“It’ll be evident how many options we have when you see the boys who miss selection for round one,” he said.

“Teams win games but squads win premierships.”

Rayner tipped the mood to change at training with the season finally set to arrive after a lengthy and impressive preparation that included trial match wins over reigning premiers Geelong and last season’s beaten grand finalists, the Sydney Swans.

“We’ve worked really hard at our new facility at Springfield, which is excellent, but it’s a bit hotter out there than it is in Brisbane, so it’s been tough,” he said.

“We’re ready for the season. We know the expectations are high, and we want to make sure that we don’t waste our chance to have a good run at the premiership.”

Rayner predicted a tough encounter against Port.

“They’ll be a good test for us. They’re a good side and they’re always hard to beat, especially at Adelaide Oval,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Gold Coast Suns also start their season next Saturday, with a night clash against the Swans at the newly named Heritage Bank Stadium at Carrara,