Why Shai Bolton’s uncle thinks his nephew is the missing piece for Fremantle

Shai Bolton’s uncle Allistair Pickett believes his nephew would be a perfect fit for Fremantle going forward.

Pickett, a two-time Sandover Medallist with Subiaco in the WAFL, was excited by reports of the Tiger’s reported trade request back home to WA this off-season and he thinks that he should pursue a move to the Dockers over the Eagles.

As Bolton’s father Darren played two games for Fremantle in 1999, Pickett thinks it’d be fitting if Shai also played for the club from the 2025 season and beyond.

“I’m related to Byron Pickett on one side and Shai Bolton is actually my nephew,” Pickett told SEN's Sportsday WA.

“He (Bolton) plays unbelievable football. I had the chance to play with his dad (Darren) who played a couple of games of Fremantle.

“So, I think it's only right that he goes to Freo. I think Fremantle would be a good fit for him…

“But it'd be good to see him come over (to Perth for either club) and play some really good footy.”

While Bolton won’t come cheaply given he’s contracted until the end of 2028 at Richmond on a deal worth north of $1 million a season, Pickett feels the 25-year-old could be the difference in helping the club achieve a maiden premiership.

Even if Bolton costs the Dockers a couple of first-round picks in a trade, Pickett thinks that he could turn into something truly special in purple.

“100 per cent (I think he could be the difference),” Pickett said.

“I think he's a new Cyril Rioli. I think he's something special. He just has that class in the forward line.

“I know (Michael) Walters is getting on … so Bolton going into that side next year would be a perfect fit for them.

“If they’re good enough to play finals next year, he might be the icing on the cake for them. I think that would change history forever for Fremantle supporters.”

Bolton has won two premierships, an All-Australian blazer and Mark of the Year honours across his 134 games for Richmond so far.