Richmond key defender Alex Rance has capped off a brilliant season with selection in the 2014 AFL All-Australian team.

Rance was one of three Tigers in the initial squad of 40, along with Brandon Ellis and Dustin Martin, but was the sole representative in the trimmed team.

The last Richmond players to receive All-Australian honours were Trent Cotchin and Brett Deledio, who were named in the 2012 team.

Rance was named at centre half back, alongside Cale Hooker, Daniel Talia, Nick Smith, Nick Malceski and Brodie Smith in the back six.

The 24-year-old missed five games at the beginning of the season, but was outstanding since his return, averaging 17 disposals, six marks and a career-high 8.5 one percenters per game.

Rance constantly drew praise from coach Damien Hardwick throughout the season, for his impact on the team.

“He is very, very good at winning the ball back off opposition,” he said.

“Every contest he goes to is life or death, and that’s the reason we love the way he plays.

“He’s going to make some mistakes along the way . . . but he gives absolutely everything on the field, and that’s why we love him as a player.”

The All Australian selection panel was Gillon McLachlan (chairman), Kevin Bartlett, Luke Darcy, Mark Evans, Danny Frawley, Glen Jakovich, Cameron Ling, Matthew Richardson and Warren Tredrea.