Richmond has made two changes to its side for Thursday night’s blockbuster season re-opener against traditional rival Collingwood at the MCG.

Nineteen members of the Tigers' 2019 premiership side will take on the Pies as the season resumes, 84 days after Round 1.

Livewire forward Jack Higgins will make his long-awaited AFL return after undergoing two rounds of brain surgery last year.

The Round 2 clash will mark Higgins' first game in just under a year, with his last appearance being Round 13, 2019 against Adelaide.

The 21-year-old played in the Tigers’ Marsh Community Series match against the Pies in March but missed out on Round 1 selection.

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Confirming the news on Wednesday morning, coach Damien Hardwick praised Higgins’ professionalism and dedication throughout his rehabilitation. 

"It's a great story, Jack, he'll play tomorrow night so it'll be his first game back since that significant injury last year and it's a testament to the lad," Hardwick said.

Also coming into the Tigers’ line-up is All Australian defender Bachar Houli, who recently recovered from a calf injury that saw him miss Round 1.

Out of the side that defeated Carlton by 24 points in Round 1 are Josh Caddy (calf) and Toby Nankervis (omitted). 

Caddy missed Tuesday's main training session with calf soreness and will look to train this weekend.

Richmond’s four emergencies for the Pies clash are Nankervis, Jack Ross, Patrick Naish and Kamdyn McIntosh. 

The first bounce on Thursday night is set for 7.40pm and will be broadcast live on Channel 7 and Fox Footy.

Show your support from home by using the hashtag #gotiges and keep up to date with Richmond’s Instagram, Facebook and Twitter accounts for all the latest news and behind-the-scenes action.

Richmond’s Round 2 team:

B Nathan Broad, Dylan Grimes, David Astbury
HB Bachar Houli, Nick Vlastuin, Jayden Short
C Daniel Rioli, Dion Prestia, Jack Graham
HF Shai Bolton, Shane Edwards, Jason Castagna
F Tom Lynch, Dustin Martin, Jack Riewoldt
Foll Ivan Soldo, Trent Cotchin, Kane Lambert
I/C Marlion Pickett, Liam Baker, Jack Higgins, Sydney Stack
Emg Jack Ross, Patrick Naish, Toby Nankervis, Kamdyn McIntosh   

In: Jack Higgins, Bachar Houli
Out: Josh Caddy (calf), Toby Nankervis (omitted)