Talented midfielder/forward Liam Baker will make his senior debut for Richmond in Saturday afternoon’s blockbuster against Collingwood at the MCG.
Baker, 173cm and 69kg, was the Tigers’ sole pick (No. 18 overall) in the AFL rookie draft held late last year.
After playing senior WAFL football with West Perth and then Subiaco during the past couple of seasons, he has been impressive at VFL level for Richmond in 2018.
Get all the game day information for Saturday afternoon's match against Collingwood
He featured in this week’s Coaches’ Corner segment on richmondfc.com.au, with Tigers development coach Xavier Clarke highlighting his on-field attributes...
“He’s a smart footballer. He sees the game really well,” Clarke said.
“He’s very similar to Kane Lambert the way he plays, with his ability to be able to run up and back. He’s got pace, and that change of pace, which really helps him as well.
“He can run all day, which is a great strength. And he’s also very tough over the footy and good with the ball.”
See Collingwood's team for Saturday afternoon's Round 19 clash at the MCG
Premiership forward Jacob Townsend also comes into the line-up on the back of some fine form at VFL level over the past two weeks.
Townsend picked up 21 disposals, eight marks and nine tackles in another gritty performance against Sandringham at Trevor Barker Oval last Sunday.
The tough Tiger has kicked 10 goals from eight AFL games this season with his last senior appearance for the Tigers being in the Round 9 loss to the Eagles at Optus Stadium.
Out of the Richmond side that defeated St Kilda by 66 points at Etihad Stadium last Friday night go Connor Menadue, through injury, and Callum Moore who has been omitted.
Richmond’s four emergencies for the Round 19 clash with the Magpies are Tyson Stengle, Ryan Garthwaite, Patrick Naish and Sam Lloyd.