Richmond experienced a fall from grace in 2021.
It didn’t quite go to plan, but all the focus is now on how the Tigers can bounce back and contend again.
They lost three-time premiership defenders Bachar Houli and David Astbury so there will be many eyes fixed on how they replace that important pair. The club’s recruiters somewhat offset that by bringing in Robbie Tarrant from North Melbourne to cover Astbury’s key position role.
It looks a slightly trickier proposition to fill the void left by Houli, who was an expert at the rebound game. There are some understudies in waiting, including youngster Hugo Ralphsmith, and forward-turned-backman Daniel Rioli, but Houli was a very good player.
New co-captain Dylan Grimes presents as the most important defensive figure once again, coming off a best and fairest campaign. Nick Vlastuin’s intercept expertise and the returning Nathan Broad bring flexibility, while Jayden Short provides the drive.
The major defensive question is whether the emerging Noah Balta will remain in the backline. He has been tried forward during pre-season, as has Liam Baker. That pair were key in defence in the 2020 premiership season so it will be an intriguing watch.
Draftees Josh Gibcus and Tom Brown, who are players of the future, could be in the mix for an early debut, and the defensive setup will be made better if Sydney Stack can rediscover his best form after showing such signs late last year.
The midfield is an area of strength for the Tigers, provided all their experienced stars are up and running. It goes without saying that Dustin Martin’s presence is crucial and a lot will depend on his form and fitness. Likewise Dion Prestia who is one of the club’s most important players but just needs a clear run at it. Trent Cotchin remains key and could be revitalised after shedding the captaincy. Shane Edwards, Shai Bolton and Jack Graham will all go through the middle with Kamdyn McIntosh patrolling one wing. This part of the ground looks in fairly good shape, but will be sweating on the fitness of Kane Lambert who could be set for hip surgery.
However, if the Tigers are to challenge again, the above group will need assistance from young mids such as Riley Collier-Dawkins, Jack Ross, Thomson Dow, Will Martyn and perhaps even Tyler Sonsie, who has impressed in pre-season.
Recently appointed joint skipper Toby Nankervis will lead the way in the ruck again. The burden will be relieved by Ivan Soldo who is back after going down in late 2020. The duo have worked well together in the past and their reunion could inject another dimension to the side.
In attack, it is the premium pairing of Tom Lynch and Jack Riewoldt who hold the key. Lynch couldn’t quite going in 2021 as he battled a knee injury, but his best is damaging. Riewoldt is entering the twilight but continues to perform. If they can find form at the same time it will bode well for the Tigers.
Bolton and Lambert will spend time in the middle, but are important to the forward line structure. The former has a huge amount of ability and the latter allows Martin to attack more freely. Jason Castagna and Jake Aarts have been the main smalls, but they will need to kick more goals in 2022. And is there a role for Josh Caddy as a third tall?
Overall, the defence is in good shape provided a large number of them aren’t struck down by injury again, while the midfield still has plenty of quality and just needs some youngsters to step up.
It’s the forward line where things really need to click if Damien Hardwick’s side is to seriously challenge again.
DEFENDERS
Dylan Grimes, Nick Vlastuin, Liam Baker, Jayden Short, Robbie Tarrant, Noah Balta, Nathan Broad, Daniel Rioli, Sydney Stack, Rhyan Mansell, Hugo Ralphsmith, Ben Miller, Josh Gibcus, Tom Brown, Sam Banks, Bigoa Nyuon.
MIDFIELDERS
Dustin Martin, Dion Prestia, Trent Cotchin, Shane Edwards, Kamdyn McIntosh, Jack Graham, Marlion Pickett, Riley Collier-Dawkins, Jack Ross, Thomson Dow, Will Martyn, Tyler Sonsie, Judson Clarke.
RUCKS
Toby Nankervis, Ivan Soldo, Samson Ryan, Mate Colina.
FORWARDS
Jack Riewoldt, Tom Lynch, Shai Bolton, Kane Lambert, Jason Castagna, Josh Caddy, Jake Aarts, Matt Parker, Maurice Rioli, Noah Cumberland.