Nick Vlastuin is right back to producing his customary, consistent high level of performance for Richmond.
The triple Tiger premiership star defender had a slightly patchy start to the 2023 season with some games where he didn’t exert his normal significant influence across the team’s backline.
But that has changed big time throughout the past few weeks.
In his last four games, Vlastuin is averaging 22.7 disposals, 10.0 marks, 3.0 tackles, 6.0 rebound-50s, 9.0 intercepts, 3.3 score involvements, 5.6 contested possessions, 3.5 one-percenters and 411.9 metres gained.
He was superb for the Tigers in their disappointing 81-point loss to Brisbane at the Gabba last Thursday night, finishing the match with 20 disposals, seven contested possessions, eight marks, six tackles, six rebound-50s, four score involvements, eight intercepts and 385 metres gained.
Without Vlastuin, and his defensive teammates Noah Balta and Nathan Broad, Richmond’s losing margin would have been considerably greater.
Vlastuin is again showcasing the elite marking and intercept ability, kicking skill, composure, courage and toughness that makes him one of the competition’s very best defenders.
