With all the unpredictability and uncertainty surrounding the 2020 AFL season, Nick Vlastuin’s rock-solidness across Richmond’s backline is a source of comfort for the television-viewing Tiger Army.
Vlastuin has been a bright light for the Tigers since the season’s resumption following a lengthy shutdown due to the coronavirus pandemic. He’s stood tall in defence under intense pressure, with the reigning premiers struggling to find form.
The 26-year-old veteran of 144 league games played a pivotal role for Richmond in its Round 2 draw with Collingwood, and he was excellent in last Thursday night’s loss to Hawthorn.
Showcasing his trademark intelligent reading of the play, poise, toughness and precision by hand and foot, he finished the match with 22 disposals, 10 intercepts, six marks, five score involvement and five rebound-50s.
Obviously, it’s very early days this season, but if Vlastuin maintains his high level of performance, he may follow in the footsteps of fellow Tiger defenders Dylan Grimes and Bachar Houli who both gained All-Australian selection for the first time last year.
Vlastuin has been a strong performer in the Richmond defence for many seasons, and certainly would not look out of place wearing an All-Australian blazer.
