Do the Tigers have one more chance to bring some silverware back to Punt Road before the changing of the guard takes place? Edwards, Cotchin and Riewoldt are all near the end of their careers but is there one final hoorah in store for these champions?
Richmond Tigers Best 22
With the shock retirement of David Astbury, the Tigers have found themselves a very nice replacement in Robbie Tarrant. It will be interesting to see how he goes in a better side after having to hold up the often under siege Roos defence for many years. Daniel Rioli looks to have found himself a spot in the backline with the retirement of Bachar Houli and will help Jayden Short provide some run and carry from defence. I’ve slotted Liam Baker on a half back flank but he is a genuine utility who could find himself up forward or even on the ball. Nick Vlastuin and Nathan Broad also provide plenty of experience off the bench for their backline.
Shai Bolton can play both inside and outside and I expect him to spend time on both the wing and on-ball. Jack Graham can do similar, as can Shane Edwards.
I expect Edwards and Trent Cotchin to play a lot more forward this year in their likely final year in the AFL. While they will still provide plenty for the Tigers, I’m sure Damien Hardwick will want to give some of the younger Tigers more opportunity through the midfield.
New co-captain Toby Nankervis will lead the midfield although I think Ivan Soldo will be breathing down his neck for a crack at the number one spot.
Jack Ross, Riley Collier-Dawkins, Thomson Dow and Will Martyn are the young Tigers who will be looking for more regular games and even some midfield time this season.
This might be the last chance for the Tigers to have a proper crack at a flag. They still have a very good list but it feels like they just need everything to go right to beat a side like Melbourne or the Bulldogs.
CBA prediction
2021 CBA leaders (by average):
- Jack Ross
- Dion Prestia
- Trent Cotchin
- Toby Nankervis
- Dustin Martin
- Callum Coleman-Jones
The Oracle’s 2022 CBA prediction:
- Dion Prestia
- Dustin Martin
- Jack Graham
- Toby Nankervis
- Jack Ross
- Trent Cotchin
Kick-in prediction
2021 kick-in leaders:
- Jayden Short
- Nick Vlastuin
- Bachar Houli
The Oracle’s 2022 kick-in prediction:
- Jayden Short
- Nick Vlastuin
- Dan Rioli
