In doing so Cornes eclipses the previous benchmark set by former captain Warren Tredrea.
The 30-year-old has become one of the most durable and consistent players in the AFL over the last 13 years.
Buy your piece of Port Adelaide history with our Kane Cornes 256th game commemorative print
Known for his reliable midfield work, he has seen his role evolve and change under three coaches while experiencing the highs and lows that always come as part of a long elite football career.
Cornes knows there is significance to the milestone, however his focus over the past week has been on his normal preparation for Sunday’s game against the Giants.
“I’m not someone who tends to look back and dwell on what happened in the past,” says Cornes.
“But when I retire it will mean a fair bit to have played the most games for this great club, particularly with so many great players who have played before me.”
Kane Cornes profile
Port Adelaide senior coach Ken Hinkley likened Cornes, who is set to extend his already decorated career beyond the end of 2013, to other past greats of the club including Brendon Lade, Matthew Primus, Peter Burgoyne and Gavin Wanganeen.
“When you think of the short history of the footy club (in the AFL) and the players that have been involved - and I go Lade, Primus, Burgoyne, Wanganeen - it’s a really significant day for Kane,” said Hinkley.
“It’s a real show that he’s been able to do this over a long period of time and he is recognised as one of the greats of this football club.”
Since debuting in 2001, Cornes has become one of Port Adelaide’s most decorated AFL footballers.
A four-time best and fairest, twice All-Australian and eight consecutive merits as the club’s annual disposals leader, Cornes’ place among the greats of the club - from both its AFL and SANFL histories - is secure.
Cornes has been named on the wing for the Power when its match against the GWS Giants gets underway at 1:10pm (EST) on Sunday afternoon, follow all the action with portadelaidefc.com.au online or on social media using the #pafclive hashtag.
A feature on the career of Kane Cornes will be presented in Port Adelaide's 2013 season Yearbook.
Kane Cornes AFL career achievements
2004 AFL premiership player
2x NAB Cup premiership player
4x John Cahill Medals for Port Adelaide’s best and fairest AFL player
2x All-Australian (2005, 2007)
8x Club disposals leader (2005-2012)
Best First Year Player (2001)
Most Improved Player (2004)
1x Best and Fairest – third place (2006)
3x Best and Fairest – second place (2004-2005,2009)
Equal second most disposals in a match (with Peter Burgoyne)
