BREAKING: Star Saints defender Josh Battle makes ‘difficult’ call on AFL future

St Kilda free agent Josh Battle has reportedly come to a decision on his AFL future.

The star intercepting defender has committed to playing for Hawthorn, with the Saints releasing a club statement on Thursday afternoon.

It comes despite optimism from St Kilda that the 25-year-old would turn his back on rival interest and commit long-term to Moorabbin.

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“I came to this club while I was still in high school and couldn’t have asked for a better place to grow, both as a footballer and a person,” Battle said in the Saints’ statement.

“I now have a young family of my own, and in planning for our future I’ve come to the difficult decision to move on from my time at the Saints.

“The club has been fantastic throughout this entire process and I leave so grateful for the support they’ve shown both my family and I.

“I’d like to thank all my teammates, coaches and staff who have made my time at the Saints so special, as well as the Saints fans who embraced me from day one.”

St Kilda football boss David Misson expressed his appreciation of Battle’s service to the club.

“While we’re clearly disappointed to be losing a person of Josh’s talent and character, he leaves with our best wishes for this next chapter for his young family,” he said in the statement.

Foxfooty.com.au’s Will Faulkner on Wednesday reported Battle’s choice between St Kilda and Hawthorn was far closer than some expected, with the Saints upping their original offer in an attempt to retain his services.

Details of the 123-gamer’s contract with the Hawks aren’t yet known.

Battle played in all 23 Saints games this season, backing up the 23 he played last season and the 21 he trotted out for in 2021 — availability is one of his many assets.

The 2016 second-round pick’s intercepting influence has grown as he has developed in St Kilda colours, with his 2.6 average intercept marks categorised as above average in comparison with fellow AFL key defenders — five intercept grabs against Brisbane in Round 21 was his best return this season.

Further, his 17.8 disposals are considered elite for a key-position backman, demonstrating his additional value as a ball-user.

The Hawks, in addition to Battle, have also been strongly linked to wantaway West Coast backman Tom Barrass — who has since formally requested a trade away from the WA club.

Hawthorn has also been attached to the likes of off-contract Western Bulldogs midfielder Bailey Smith and GWS free-agent defender Harry Perryman.