Sam Lalor’s excellent debut for Richmond in last Thursday night’s mighty Round 1 win against Carlton at the MCG captured the imagination of the football world, including Tigers captain Toby Nankervis.

The No. 1 pick in the 2024 AFL national draft had 18 disposals, six contested possessions and a team-high eight score involvements, to go with two goals of his own.

He looked more like a 100-gamer than a debutant, such was his composure, and he showcased his considerable talent right throughout the contest.

Nankervis was suitably impressed . . .

“He just loves the contact . . . that’s what I’ve noticed, coming in as an 18-year-old,” Nankervis said on SEN.

“Even in our training sessions, he loves breaking tackles and going for his marks.

“It hasn’t taken him long at all.

“He looks like a man playing out there already and it’s so great to see . . .

“Someone that can really put his body on the line like that, at 18 years old, it’s pretty special.

“I’m sure his growth will be amazing.

“He’s a great teammate as well.”