Crows defender Luke Nankervis has been rewarded after a breakout season with a two-year contract extension.

The versatile 21-year-old is now contracted to Adelaide until at least the end of 2027 as he looks to build on a promising start to his AFL career.

Nankervis played 20 games last season to go with four in 2023 when he made his AFL debut in Round 19.

Selected in the 2021 pre-season draft as a forward, Nankervis has also played on the wing and now in defence with Adelaide.

Crows GM List Management and Strategy Justin Reid said Nankervis had worked hard for his opportunity and thoroughly deserved the contract extension.

“Luke is a great example that it doesn’t matter where or when you are drafted, but that you work hard and make the most of every opportunity,” Reid said.

“We like his versatility and his attacking flair, and he brings a number of strengths to our team including his athleticism and his ability to defend different types, so we are really pleased that he has re-signed for a further two years.”

Nankervis said the environment at West Lakes had enabled him to significantly improve his game since being drafted.

“I’m really thankful to the Club, there was a time in 2021 when it didn’t look like I was going to be drafted and Adelaide backed me in and continues to do that now, so I really want to pay that back,” he said.

“I came in as a raw teenager with a lot to learn about footy and professionalism and I’ve been able to progress enough to play 20 games last season, and hopefully I can have another strong year and put in the work.

“I really love the group and the environment, and every day I go to training I enjoy it.”