NORTH Melbourne young gun Colby McKercher has landed a well-deserved AFL Rising Star nomination for his performance in round nine.

McKercher, the No.2 pick in last year's draft, has enjoyed a strong start to his AFL career and impressed again in the Roos' loss to Gold Coast on Saturday night.

The classy left-footer had 30 disposals and six intercept possessions off half-back in Darwin.

McKercher is averaging 20.7 touches in 2024 and has played a bigger role in recent weeks with Harry Sheezel moving higher up the ground.

The 19-year-old has been a huge positive in what has been a tough season for the Kangaroos.

North holds a 0-9 win-loss record ahead of facing Essendon on Sunday.

McKercher is North's second Rising Star nominee of 2024, joining George Wardlaw (round two).

2024 Rising Star nominees

OR: Matt Roberts (Sydney)
R1: Ollie Dempsey (Geelong)
R2: George Wardlaw (North Melbourne)
R3: Harvey Gallagher (Western Bulldogs)
R4: Sam Darcy (Western Bulldogs)
R5: Harley Reid (West Coast)
R6: Darcy Wilson (St Kilda)
R7: Jake Rogers (Gold Coast)
R8: Caleb Windsor (Melbourne)
R9: Colby McKercher (North Melbourne)