Richmond coach Damien Hardwick has acknowledged the consistent efforts throughout the season of two relatively unheralded members of the Tigers’ defence – Jake Batchelor and Dylan Grimes.
Hardwick believes the development of the unassuming, young backmen has been an important factor in Richmond’s defence being ranked third (for total points against) during the home-and-away rounds (behind Hawthorn and Fremantle).
Batchelor, who has played all 22 games, is averaging 12.3 disposals and 4.8 marks. He’s shown an impressive capacity to combine tight defence with valuable interceptions and attacking run.
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Grimes, with 17 games this season, is averaging 10.8 disposals and 2.8 marks. He also has displayed the ability to keep opponents in tight check, as well as intercept and run off.
“They’re terrific players, both those boys,” Hardwick said on SEN.
“One forgets, they’re both only 23-24 years of age. It seems like they’ve been around for a long time.
“I was probably one of the guys that was hardest on Jake . . .
“He’s got one of those old heads, so you feel like he’s 26-27 years of age.
“They’ve both had very good seasons, Nick Vlastuin as well . . .”
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