Two of Richmond’s top pick-ups from rival clubs in recent years will reach significant milestones in Sunday’s Round 20 clash with Gold Coast the MCG.
Ruckman Ivan Maric, recruited from Adelaide, plays his 150th game, while Shaun Grigg, formerly of Carlton, notches up his 100th game with the Tigers.
Maric joined Richmond at the end of 2011 following a 77-game career in six seasons with the Crows.
He has become one of the Tigers’ valuable contributors since then due to his strength, toughness, on-field aggression, exemplary worth ethic and leadership qualities, along with a fair bit of football ability.
The 29-year-old joined Brett Deledio as a vice-captain of the team for this season and he’s performed admirably in that role.
In 17 games this season, Maric is averaging 13.1 disposals and 24.7 hit-outs. He’s ranked ninth in the competition for total hit-outs.
Grigg arrived at Tigerland at the end of 2010 after a 43-game career in four seasons with the Blues.
He has made the most of the opportunities presented to him by Richmond, playing 99 of a possible 108 games during his time with the Tigers (he missed several weeks in 2014 due to a hamstring injury).
The 27-year-old has generated considerable drive for the side through his outside hard running, but this season he’s thriving following the return to a more familiar inside role.
Grigg is averaging 21.1 disposals per game in season 2015. His ability to win contested ball and clearances has been impressive, and he’s been hitting the scoreboard as well, with a total of 13 goals.
