Josh Lai, from Cheltenham in Melbourne's Southern League, is known for his run and carry. Image: Andrew Keech.

Port Adelaide has invited 19-year-old Josh Lai to train with its AFL side during the AFL pre-season. 

Alongside former North Melbourne VFL captain Jack Watkins, Lai will be vying for an AFL list spot during the supplementary selection period (SSP), with clubs able to sign players up until Friday, 21 February. 

Lai was identified by Port Adelaide’s recruiting team out of Cheltenham in Melbourne’s Southern League, where he demonstrated his speed, power, competitiveness, and strong overhead marking. 

These traits were on show in his club’s premiership win in September, where he was recognised as best on ground. 

Born in Singapore and playing soccer before moving to Melbourne with his family as a child, Lai came through the junior ranks at Miles Bergman’s boyhood club Hampton Rovers, playing as a midfielder and half back flanker, before moving onto the wing. 

Lai is excited for the opportunity to train in an AFL environment. Image: Andrew Keech.

He recently emerged from an injury interrupted 2023 season to play 12 senior games in 2024. 

Lai was excited for an opportunity to train alongside some of the best. 

“I’m really keen to get started at Port Adelaide, and to give it my best shot at playing AFL football,” Lai said. 

“It’s all happened so fast. I came over for a medical late last week and got to meet the group and just a few days later, I’ve moved across and I’m training full time. 

“I’m really excited for the chance to learn and train at Port Adelaide and will give it my all.” 

Port Adelaide will train for another two weeks before breaking for Christmas.