Young Sun Izak Rankine announces himself a future AFL star

Young Suns debutante Izak Rankine promised to entertain if drafted and more than delivered on debut.

Gold Coast Sun Izak Rankine runs away from the Demons defence in Saturday’s match at Giants Stadium in Sydney. Picture: Getty Images

A week after Matt Rowell’s shoulder injury deflated AFL fans, the Gold Coast unleashed dynamic talent Izak Rankine on the football world.

To suggest the eagerly awaited debut by the No 3 pick in the 2018 draft on Saturday against Melbourne exceeded expectations is an understatement.

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The 20-year-old displayed flair, great skill and determination for the contest in a remarkable display that almost swung the result of the match.

Rankine only gathered 12 disposals but it was what he did with the football that created excitement despite the Suns’ 17-point loss to Melbourne.

The South Australian kicked three goals, with one booted off the ground in the middle of a pack an eye-catcher, in a performance that thrilled Essendon legend Matthew Lloyd.

“I haven’t been this excited by a youngster,” he said.

“I can’t remember a debut where you are that excited, where you are that glued to the screen. He was the difference. He was going to win them the game last night.”

A part of football folklore are stories about rumoured talent just around the next corner, or the younger brother back in the bush who is even better than the current star.

Rowell may well prove the better footballer but the rumours surrounding Rankine’s talent have always been strong. Leading into his debut, footy talent manager Mick Ablett likened his skills to Adelaide champion Andrew McLeod.

So the wait was well worth it 😳

The Suns didn't take the win last night, but they finally let loose Izak Rankine, who kicked three dazzling goals in his much anticipated debut. pic.twitter.com/PKaHp3wj0g

— AFL (@AFL) July 12, 2020

Lloyd likened his skill set to another AFL legend, Collingwood champion Peter Daicos.

“They just could not stop him. To me he was like Daicos. Just a natural footballer,” he said on the Sunday Footy Show.

“He was flying for marks. Crumbing (packs). He has goal sense and also a sense of knowing where the ball is going to go that is just instinctive. You can’t teach (it) ... he has got a bit of flair.”