Crossing from Collingwood this off-season, Atu Bosenavulagi arrived at North Melbourne with a reputation as an exciting and crafty forward or wingman.

But his role has taken a surprising, but successful change, during his time at his new club. 

Shifting into the backline in 2021, Bosenavulagi has impressed coaches and fans alike with his aggression, speed and skill in an unfamiliar position, and he is banging the door down for an AFL call-up.

Playing on 150-game veteran Mitch Wallis in Friday’s VFL practice match, Bosenavulagi restricted the Western Bulldogs' 2020 leading goalkicker to just one goal, as he asserted himself in the contest.

Despite the late decision to move him back, North's number 15 is flourishing, and says he’s enjoying the challenges that come with learning a new position.

“The coaches only moved me into the backline four weeks before the season started,” Bosenavulagi told North Media.

“I’m just trying to adapt as quickly as possible and make my mark in the backline … I’m really excited for the opportunity to have a go at that role.

“Obviously Mitch Wallis is a very good player, so it was a good challenge to be playing on him today … I think the whole backline stood up pretty well most of the day.”

As one of many new faces at North  heading into the new season, Bosenavulagi has had to adapt to new teammates, a new culture and new coaches.

Despite the many challenges that come with joining a new club, he’s fitting in well with North’s playing group.

“I’m enjoying my time at North. The culture’s good and the boys are good,” Bosenavulagi said.

“The coaches want me to have more experience in the backline … [so] I’m really focused on learning the new position and getting the hang of things back there.

“It’s definitely been a big challenge to come into a new club and learn a new position, but I’m enjoying it though.”

With round one of the VFL inching closer, Bosenavulagi believes his side has got what it takes to get wins on the board.

According to the defender, it’s just a matter of time and consistency before the results start coming.

“We just need to play four quarters of football,” Bosenavulagi added.

“We’ve shown a lot of good signs over the last few weeks. We play a really good half or three quarters, but then we drop off a bit.

“That’s when the other team starts scoring and takes the game away from us.

“It’s all just about playing four quarters and sticking to our trademark, using our grit, attitude and determination.”