Richmond coach Damien Hardwick is expecting a fierce battle at the MCG on Thursday night in the season-opener against Carlton.

Hardwick believes the Blues will be a tough opposition to handle, after their pre-season campaign, which he described as impressive.

“The guys they’ve brought in – (Liam) Jones is going to add a different dimension to them.  I like the look of (Jason) Tutt, and (Kristian) Jaksch down back has also added something to them,” Hardwick told the media on Wednesday.

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“I thought their game against Geelong, they were very good. Geelong looked like they were going to head out and win that game.  To the Blues’ credit, as they always do, they fight.”

Carlton has claimed underdog status ahead of the blockbuster clash at the home of football.  Hardwick, however, was less interested in pre-game odds or predictions.

“These Round 1 games are 50/50 games. Every side is going to be out to put their best foot forward, and this will be no exception,” he said.

“From our point of view, we just worry about what we can control, and play our best footy, and pick our best side.”

Join fellow Tiger fans in a Tailgate Party and March to the ‘G before this Thursday’s game

The Tigers had a final, light training run at the ME Bank Centre today (Wednesday, April 1), putting the finishing touches on a long and arduous pre-season campaign.

“We’re probably like every other side at this stage of proceedings,” Hardwick said.

“We’re ready to go.  We’ve had a good pre-season, and we’ve got a relatively healthy squad.

“Tomorrow night can’t come quick enough.  It’s been a big build-up.”