A seventh All Australian jumper validates Gary Ablett as one of the greatest players in the game’s history, according to former Brownlow Medallist Gerard Healy.

“There are only a few players in the history of the game to have achieved what Gary Ablett has done,” Healy said.

“It signifies the greatness of these two players (including 5x All Australian Dane Swan).”

Former Adelaide skipper and current All Australian selector Mark Ricciuto, who alongside Robert Harvey shares the record of eight All Australian appearances, joked Ablett’s selection had sparked heated debate amongst his fellow panellists. 

“Look we just snuck him in there, we had a lot of discussions whether he should get a spot but several 40-odd disposals games just got him in,” Ricciuto said.

“He’s a superstar and is just getting better and better.”

Named as the honorary Vice-Captain for the second consecutive year, Ablett ensured his leadership streak continued into a fourth year.

AFL CEO and chairman of the All Australian selection committee – Andrew Demetriou, said the All Australian panel were very comfortable with their decision to name Geelong’s Joel Selwood as skipper and Ablett as deputy.

“It is his (Gary’s) seventh consecutive time in the All Australian team. He has been Captain once before in 2011 and now continues as Vice-Captain,” said Demetriou.

“We were very proud with the Captain and Vice-Captain.”

Having played in two Premierships alongside the superstar match-winner, Cameron Ling said Ablett’s ability to maintain his extraordinary standard since moving up north had made him a one in a generation-type player.

“You’re comparing great with great,” the former Geelong skipper said.

“His performance levels at both Clubs has been outstanding, and what has impressed most – I had one tiny question as to whether Gary leaving if he would get the same support he got in Geelong.

“… But he has brought through these young players and kept his standard unbelievably high – it has just blown me away.”

“Seven years in a row. That is a fantastic achievement by Gaz.”