Ben Cousins has been ruled out of Richmond’s team for Sunday’s match against Adelaide with back soreness.

Cousins received a knock in his back during the Tigers’ loss to Geelong last week.

“Ben was very sore early in the week, but we believed he was still a fair chance to come up for the match,” Richmond Football Operations Manager Ross Monaghan said.

“His soreness has persisted throughout the week, so the decision was made that he wouldn’t be able to play at the level required.”

Cousins’ spot in the 25-man squad was taken by Adam Thomson.

Richmond’s team will be finalised this afternoon.