Daniel Rioli further enhanced his reputation as one of the best rebounding defenders in the AFL competition with a top-class performance for Richmond against Geelong at the MCG last Friday night.

The triple Tiger premiership star played a pivotal role in the team’s 24-point win with his customary run-and-carry out of the backline.

He finished the match with 23 disposals, six marks, four rebound-50s, four intercepts, one goal, seven score involvements and 513 metres gained.

It was the ninth time in the nine games so far this season that he has racked up 20 disposals or more.

His disposals average in season 2023 is 23.7, along with 5.4 marks, 4.1 rebound-50s, 5.8 intercepts, 4.0 score involvements and 437.7 metres gained.

Richmond coach Damien Hardwick provided a glowing assessment of Rioli’s rebounding proficiency during his post-match press conference.

“He’s just one of those guys, with his run-and-carry, I think they’re just so important in setting your game up,” Hardwick said.

“They get speed on the ball and they move the ball really well.

“I think the vast majority of his season has been outstanding.

“We toyed with throwing him forward there for a period (against Geelong) because he hurt his ankle, and he won a couple of crucial balls as well.

“So, we’ve always got that up our sleeve.

“But he’s just such a damaging half-back at the moment that we’re really pleased he plays for the Tigers.”

Rioli modestly attributed his excellent form since transitioning from a small forward to a rebounding defender to his fellow Tiger backmen.

“I think the boys down back really believe in what I can do, and they give me the ball, which is nice,” Rioli said in a post-game interview on Channel Seven.

“So, credit to those boys. They make me look good.”