Martin-like Rayner can handle No.1 mantle as Lions zero in

TOP AFL prospect Cameron Rayner is well equipped to take on the No.1 draft pick mantle that has proved so burdensome to some players.

Rayner, a midfielder likened to Richmond superstar Dustin Martin, is the hot tip to be taken by Brisbane with the first selection at tonight’s draft in Sydney.

Fellow Victorian onballers Luke Davies-Uniacke, Paddy Dow and Andrew Brayshaw are also a chance to be this year’s top pick.

“I think any of those four boys would handle the No.1 mantle well and they’re all a little bit different,” AFL talent manager Kevin Sheehan said.

“Rayner just embraces being in a team environment ... he’s been popular wherever he’s played.

“He’s always got a smile on his dial and enjoys what he’s doing. It’s a great approach to have and he doesn’t shy away from doing the work.”

Rayner was yesterday unsure whether the Lions planned to make him the No.1 pick.

Speculation surfaced that the Lions had already told Rayner they would make him this year’s top pick but he maintained he was in the dark.

“I had a meeting with them the other day ... I went in there expecting to figure it out but I probably came out more confused,” Rayner said.

“I’ll just know when every- one else knows. I’m just looking forward to seeing where I will end up and start playing footy.

“I said right from the start of the year that if I got a chance to play AFL footy, I’d play anywhere. Brisbane would be an awesome place to live and the club is going forward.

“I’d love to a part of that and, if that happens, I’d be really excited.”

Davies-Uniacke is widely predicted to be claimed by Fremantle with the second overall pick, while Dow is the popular choice to be taken by Carlton at No.3. But the midfielder is quietly hoping North Melbourne will be able to swoop with the fourth overall pick.