The North Melbourne Kangaroos have drafted Oakleigh Chargers midfielder George Wardlaw with its second selection of the 2022 AFL Draft.

With two early back-to-back picks, the Kangaroos were able to add competitive inside midfielder Wardlaw to its talented young core after selecting Sandringham Dragons forward Harry Sheezel with pick No.3.

North's original picks of No.2 and No.3 became No.3 and No.4 after its bid for Brisbane father-son prospect Will Ashcroft was matched by the Lions.

The ultra-competitive Wardlaw is a natural and powerful inside midfielder with a hard edge regarding how he takes on the sport.

Whenever the Oakleigh product took the field this season, his elite level output at the contest and his ability to explode from stoppages separated himself from the rest of the emerging talents.

Although his 2022 on-field campaign was limited due to injury, the fact that he remained a top-five draft prospect all season long is testament to just how impactful he can be when on the park.

The 182cm onballer began his top-age season in gripping fashion, collecting 24 disposals, eight tackles and a goal against eventual premiers Sandringham in Round 1 of the NAB League season when he went head-to-head with Ashcroft.

He further strengthened his case as a potential top-three selection when he was name best afield for the AFL Academy side in a clash with Collingwood's VFL side.

With tremendous football nous and an eagerness to stamp his name on the competition, Wardlaw is a readymade, skilful player that will complement the likes of Jy Simpkin, Luke Davies-Uniacke and Ben Cunnington.

Cunnington was on stage at Marvel Stadium to present Wardlaw with his new North jumper.