Triple Richmond premiership star defender Nick Vlastuin has taken his game to an even higher level in 2022.

After missing the opening four games of the season with a hamstring injury, Vlastuin made a seamless return to the playing field.

An ultra-consistent, top performer for the Tigers since making his AFL debut in 2013, the 28-year-old veteran of 181 games is arguably in the best form of his career.

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Round 14: Vlastuin post-match

Nick Vlastuin speaks to the media following the Round 14 win over Carlton.

So far this season, he is averaging 22.2 disposals, 7.9 marks, 6.4 rebound-50s, 9.4 intercepts, 3.5 score involvements and 444.8 metres gained per match.

He is ranked No. 1 in the competition for intercepts per game and No. 6 for marks per game.

Vlastuin was a key factor in Richmond’s victory over Carlton at the MCG last Thursday night, with 24 disposals, five marks, seven rebound-50s, a team-high 10 intercepts and 428 metres gained.