Adelaide Crows rookie Ben Dowdell has switched SANFL clubs.

The former US College basketballer, in his second year with the Crows after being an alternative talent selection at the end of 2011, has left South Adelaide to play the rest of the season with Central District.

Crows General Manager Football Administration Phil Harper said Dowdell was seeking more opportunities.  

“Ben wants to spend more time on the field in league football, playing in ruck,” Harper said. “He has enjoyed his time at South but was keen to keep developing his game, and get more time on the ground.

“We are pleased that both SANFL clubs had the player’s best interests at heart to give Ben an opportunity to extend his AFL career.”