Exciting youngster Shai Bolton has recommitted to Richmond for two years, tying him to the Club until the end of 2023.

The 22-year-old dual premiership player has been a crucial contributor to Richmond’s success in recent times, making him one of the most promising young players in the league.

Bolton has averaged 20 disposals and over a goal per game in 2021, playing across the midfield and half-forward line.

After being selected with Richmond’s first pick at the 2016 National Draft (Pick No. 29 overall), Bolton displayed an obvious talent throughout his early years at the Club, winning both the VFL Mark and Goal of the Year in 2018.

He broke into the Tigers’ senior side as a regular player in 2019 and began showcasing his freakish ability at the elite level.

Last season, Bolton excelled in the prolonged absence of experienced pair Shane Edwards and Dion Prestia, embracing an expanded midfield role to finish fourth in the Jack Dyer Medal.

Bolton said he was “very excited” for the next two years at Richmond.

“I am happy to be at Tigerland. I have been so excited to be staying (because) I love all the boys here,” he said.

“We have got a very good Indigenous culture at Richmond as well, and I think it is getting even better. I just love it at the place.”

Bolton added that he was proud to be one of the record-breaking seven Indigenous players in the same 22 for the Tigers against Geelong in Round 19. He said the team’s culture was a key driver in his excitement in committing to the Club.

“The playing group in general, we all have a brotherhood,” Bolton explained.

“We take football seriously, but it is kind of a different thing at Richmond, where we have a tight group and have fun with each other.

“We make football fun and that is why I like it at Richmond.”

Richmond General Manager- Football Talent, Blair Hartley said the Club was delighted to extend Bolton’s contract.

“Shai has thrived in our football program since first arriving from Western Australia late in 2016.

“He has worked really hard to improve his game, which he has taken to another level this season, and shown attributes that we rate really highly in the way we want to play.

“Shai’s signing is really exciting news for the club and we are looking forward to seeing him continue to grow across the next two seasons and beyond.”