Richmond has locked in its starting line-up for Friday night’s big clash with Geelong at the MCG.

Decorated midfielder Trent Cotchin returns to the Tigers' line-up for the primetime match against the reigning premier, after being managed in last Saturday's win over West Coast. 

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He replaces Noah Cumberland and Judson Clarke, who have both been omitted from the team. 

Rhyan Mansell, last week's activated substitute, has been selected in the line-up.

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Clarke has been named as an emergency, alongside Tylar Young, Tyler Sonsie and Bigoa Nyuon. 

The Tigers will confirm which player steps into the 23 to be the substitute 60 minutes before the opening bounce.

Senior coach Damien Hardwick said recently re-signed co-captain Dylan Grimes and his defensive unit were up for the challenge against in-form Geelong key forwards Jeremy Cameron and Tom Hawkins.

"We're certainly going to have our hands full... We need some pressure on the ball, there's no doubt about that," Hardwick said

Star midfielder Dion Prestia will play his 200th AFL game on Friday night, with Hardwick lauding him as "a magical player" for the Tigers.

"He came to our Club at the back end of 2016, and it's no coincidence that all of a sudden we started to win a hell of a lot of footy games," Hardwick said.

"Not only is he a great offensive player, but his two-way running is second to none.

"He's an outstanding leader both on and off the field and we couldn't be prouder of the person and the player he is.

"We hope we give him the due he deserves for a wonderful 200 games in AFL footy."

Friday night's game will be broadcast live on Channel 7, FOX FOOTY and Kayo Sports. 

Round 9, Richmond v Geelong, Friday, May 12, 7:20pm (AEST), MCG
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In: Trent Cotchin
Out: Noah Cumberland (omitted), Judson Clarke (omitted)

Milestone: Dion Prestia (200 AFL games)