GIANTS star Lachie Ash has been recognised for his stellar season with selection in the 2026 All-Australian team announced at the AFL Awards on Tuesday night.  

Ash earns his first All-Australian blazer following a brilliant season which saw the 25-year-old continue to be a major weapon for Adam Kingsley’s side as one of the league’s most damaging rebound defenders. 

Ash’s eye-catching campaign has earnt him a place on the half back flank of this year’s All-Australian side. 

After earning his maiden All-Australian squad selection last year, Ash took his game to even greater heights in 2026, showcasing his trademark run and carry out of defence to even greater effect this season.  

Ash finished the 2026 season ranked elite for disposals, kicks, handballs, marks, and meters gained, averaging 28.7 disposals, 19 kicks, 9.7 handballs, 7.2 marks and 626 metres gained per game. 

Those stats saw the star defender finish first among all defenders across the competition for disposals, as well as second across all positions for both meters gained and running bounces, highlighting his ability to take the game on and turn defence into attack. 

Ash’s recognition comes following a career-best 2026 campaign which earlier this year saw him star for Victoria in their Origin win over Western Australia in February, with Ash winning the E.J Whitten Medal after being judged best afield for his side by the Victorian coaches.  

GIANTS General Executive General Manager of Football, Jason McCartney, said Ash’s All-Australian honour was great reward for a standout season. 

“To be named an All-Australian is a fantastic achievement and we’re really thrilled for Lachie,” McCartney said. 

“He works extremely hard on his game and continues to strive to be the best footballer he can be and we’ve really seen him establish himself as one of the best players in the league over the last two years. 

“After a really strong year last year he not only carried that over to this season, but he took his game to another level and it’s exciting to see him rewarded with the honour of a spot in the All-Australian side. 

“I’d also like to congratulate Clayton Oliver on making the All-Australian squad. He’s been a huge addition to our side and had a fantastic season worthy of recognition.”