Richmond has made one change to its starting line-up for tomorrow afternoon’s game against Sydney at the MCG.

The Tigers have selected running defender Derek Eggmolesse-Smith for his first game at senior level since Round 11 last year.

It is a feel-good story for the former Next Generation Academy product who played six AFL games in 2020 before being delisted by the Club in November.

Eggmolesse-Smith, who was then re-signed by Richmond last month, admitted he needed to return “stronger and fitter” to win back his spot in the AFL’s pre-season supplemental selection period.

The 22-year-old has impressed in recent VFL practice matches, including a 19 disposal, four rebound 50s, and four tackle performance against Box Hill last week.

Making way for Eggmolesse-Smith is Daniel Rioli, who has been omitted.

Rioli is an emergency for the match along with Mabior Chol, Jack Ross and the yet-to-debut Hugo Ralphsmith.

Tomorrow’s clash will be a milestone game for triple premiership forward Jason Castagna and dual premiership youngster Shai Bolton.

Castagna, who is set to play in his 100th AFL game, has been a vital part of Richmond’s recent success, having missed just three matches in the past four seasons.

The 24-year-old has averaged better than a goal a game while always providing manic forward pressure throughout his time at Tigerland.

Bolton, who made his debut in Round 6, 2017, is playing in his 50th game. The 22-year-old is coming off a career-best season where he finished fourth in the Jack Dyer Medal.

The game will be broadcast live on FOX FOOTY and Kayo tomorrow from 2pm AEDT, with both teams looking for a third consecutive win to start the season.

Richmond will finalise which of the emergencies comes into the 23 to fill the medical substitute role 60 minutes before the bounce.

Richmond team v Sydney Swans, Saturday, April 3, 1.45pm, MCG.
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In: Derek Eggmolesse-Smith
Out: Daniel Rioli (omitted), Jack Ross (omitted)

Milestones: Jason Castagna (100 games), Shai Bolton (50 games)