Melbourne, Victoria, Australia: Indian-origin teenager Jai Saxena has secured an opportunity in the Australian Football League after being picked by Collingwood FC in the Rookie Draft held on November 21. The 18-year-old forward, who delivered an impressive season in the Coates Talent League, will now move into senior-level football when the new season begins in March.
Saxena, who was born in Australia to Indian parents, has been assigned jersey number 43 for his first year at the club. Collingwood highlighted that this number was previously worn by notable players such as Ricky Barham in the 1970s and Nick Maxwell early in his career before he went on to become a premiership captain.
The announcement of his squad number came after the conclusion of the 2025 trade and draft period. Collingwood reported that all newly added players had finalized their jumper numbers for the 2026 season. The club wrapped up the 2025 season in fourth place, advancing to the preliminary final where they were defeated by Brisbane.
Joining as a pre-selected Category A rookie, Saxena becomes the second player of dual Indian heritage to be drafted into the AFL. He progressed through Collingwood’s Next Generation Academy and represented the Oakleigh Chargers in the Coates Talent League, where he delivered a standout 2025 campaign.
He started the year strongly with nine goals in his first three matches for Oakleigh, including a five-goal display. He continued to perform consistently with two goals, 23 disposals, and nine marks against the Northern Knights, followed by another five-goal effort from 17 disposals and six marks in a game against Sandringham.
His overall performance earned him selection in the Vic Metro squad, where he made two appearances in the U18 National Championships.
