Zach Merrett wins seventh Crichton Medal at Essendon B&F event

Zach Merrett celebrated his seventh Crichton Medal at Essendon’s best and fairest event on October 1, 2026, securing 117 votes. He edged out Sam Durham, who received 106 votes, and Archie Roberts with 77 votes. Merrett's achievement ties him with Essendon legends Dick Reynolds and Bill Hutchison. With ongoing trade discussions, Merrett is expected to depart Essendon for Hawthorn this month, having previously rejected a trade last year. Essendon's recent draftees, Jacob Farrow, Sullivan Robey, and Dyson Sharp, also made an impressive showing, finishing in the top 10 of the voting.

• 12:56 PMAFL — Wantaway Bomber joins club greats, rising draftees in top 10 of B&F