Richmond opted for pace in selecting electrifying Western Australian speedster Shai Bolton with its first selection in the AFL National Draft. 

 

Bolton has already starred on Punt Road, collecting 16 touches and kicking a goal in the NAB All Stars game on Grand Final played at the venue. 

 

Having traded in tough midfielders Dion Prestia and Josh Caddy, the Tigers will have an electrifying forwardline if Bolton can eventually slot in next to Daniel Rioli. 

 

Richmond recruiting manager Francis Jackson said Bolton's speed was a handy asset. 

 

"It won't go astray," Jackson told AFL.com.au.

 

"We added Daniel (Rioli) last year and provided a lot of excitement and we think Shai is well placed to do the same."  

 

Both are noted tacklers who will put enormous pressure on opposition defenders while feeding off any crumbs from Jack Riewoldt. 

 

Bolton was, by his own admission, slightly inconsistent during 2016 but he is capable of turning a game in minutes with his goal sense and capacity to do the unexpected. 

 

He will only turn 18 in December and overcame stress fractures in his back to sit out of football in 2015 however Jackson remains optimistic he could play senior football in 2017. 

 

From Mandurah in Western Australia, Bolton's father Darren played two games for Fremantle in 1999 taking on Carlton and Hawthorn. 

 

He moved to Perth to board at Wesley College for three years and is expected to have no hesitation about shifting to Victoria to play football. 

 

Francis Jackson says:  He brings a great deal of flair and speed. He was exceptional in the carnival and has played well in big games. An opportunist he is not yet 18. 

Francis Jackson says:  A fantastic character who plays with heart and size. He is a real competitor who won the Larke Medal as the best player at the under-18 championships. He is an elite runner and his work ethic is exceptional. We were very excited he was still there at pick No.56. 

Francis Jackson says: A key defender who can also play on the smalls. Defensively he does a terrific job. He will make the most of the opportunity.