While the new breed of midfielder is set to take over the 2016 Virgin Australia AFL All Australian team, the over-30s should not be discounted. 

AFL.com.au picked its team of veterans aged 30 or over based on their performances this season, with many set to challenge for selection when the All Australian team is announced on September 1.

In particular, several veteran defenders are in career-best perform with Geelong champion Corey Enright a good chance of claiming AA honours for a sixth time.

The final 22 will be named at a function in Melbourne on September 1.

Representing the GIANTS are Heath Shaw, Steve Johnson and Shane Mumford who have all enjoyed successful 2016 seasons thus far.

Shaw is the reigning Kevin Sheedy Medallist and has continued his great form this season, averaging almost 25 touches and eight marks a game.

He has also averaged more than a century in AFL Fantasy points, sitting on 101.9 per game in his 21 appearances.

Ruckman Shane Mumford has continued to prove his importance to the GIANTS with another strong season. The 30-year-old has missed just one game this year and averages 35 hit outs and almost six tackles a game.

Since arriving at the GIANTS Steve Johnson has proven his worth after being cut by Geelong after 253 games and three Premierships. He's missed just one game this year and kicked 39 goals including five in a half against Hawthorn in round six.

UNLUCKY TO MISS: Harry Taylor (Geel), Tom Lonergan (Geel), Matthew Boyd (WB), Ryan Griffen (GWS), Brendon Goddard (Ess), David Mundy (Fre), Matt Priddis (WC)