Richmond defender Troy Chaplin has backed teammate Shaun Hampson to take on star West Coast ruckman Nic Naitanui in Friday night’s clash at Domain Stadium.

The Tigers play their first interstate match for the season when they travel to Perth and athletic ruckman Naitanui looms as a key player for the hosts.

Chaplin said Hampson, who has bore the brunt of the ruck-load in the absence of Ivan Maric, was strong against Adelaide last Saturday.

Hampson edged out Crow Sam Jacobs with 34 hitouts to 28 and finished with his first goal since Round 14, 2014.

“Naitanui’s a fantastic player, he’s a freak,” Chaplin said.

“You’re not going to be able to stop him, you’ve just got to try and curb his influence as much as possible.

“The game on the weekend was probably the best game Hammer’s played for the Club.

“He’s a fantastic tap ruckman and he was able to take some marks around the ground.

“We’ll back Hammer in, and if Ivan (Maric) comes in, that’s obviously going to strengthen that area too.”

Maric is a 50-50 chance to play in Friday night’s Round 4 match against West Coast as he recovers from a back injury.

He made a strong playing return in the opening round of VFL competition on Sunday, taking to the field for about 75 minutes.

Chaplin also spoke of the Club’s strong interstate record, especially in the west.

“We’ve beaten West Coast the last two times over there, we’ve touched Fremantle up over there as well,” Chaplin said.

“We’re looking forward to getting away together and hopefully bring back the four points.”