Adelaide utility Mitch Hinge says adding another string to his bow has helped take his game to new heights this campaign.

Hinge, who signed with the Crows as a delisted free agent at the end of 2020, has become a proven performer in 2023, averaging 18 disposals across 15 appearances. 

Speaking to the media on Wednesday, Hinge said being a more versatile player had always been something he had strived to achieve.

“I think flexibility is something that you always want, especially coming from the fringe and not really getting too much of a gig in the early days of my career,” Hinge said.

“I played on the wing at the end of last year and most of the pre-season, now I find myself playing half-back and I’ve also played tall as well.

“I guess it allows you to help the team when the team needs you but also on a personal level, it gives you a little bit of a different dynamic if one attribute isn’t working.”

The 25-year-old has predominantly played across half-back this season and said he was enjoying the change so far. 

“I feel like I have the attributes to play well there,” Hinge said.

“I’m a good kick and user of the footy and hopefully I can take a few marks and attack that last line.

“At the end of the day, it's good to have different options and it allows me to play in different spots of the ground.”

Adelaide takes on North Melbourne at Adelaide Oval this Saturday in what will be the Club’s annual Breakthrough Round, in support of research into mental illness.

Hinge said the Crows were expecting a tough contest.

“To be honest, they have been going really well and been really unlucky in the last couple weeks to not win a couple of games,” Hinge said.

“The nature of the AFL this year is that if you're not at the top of your game, you will probably be in strife, so we are looking to come out this weekend and really perform. 

“We are going to have to make sure our contest is up to the level and be really ready for what they (North Melbourne) are going to bring.”

Adelaide plays North Melbourne at Adelaide Oval on Saturday at 1.15pm.

Tickets available here.