Tigers ponder ruck replacements for suspended skipperBy AAP
13 July 2023Andrew McQualter is considering fit-again "big dude" Ivan Soldo to fill the Richmond ruck void left by suspended co-captain Toby Nankervis for the clash with West Coast.
It has opened the door for Soldo or Samson Ryan to return to the senior side, while Ben Miller served as Nankervis' ruck partner in last week's win over the Swans.
Soldo, who featured in the Tigers' 2020 premiership side, has been limited to just one senior match this season because of a battle with foot injuries.
"He's just struggled to get some continuity, which three weeks in a row now he's been able to get," Richmond interim coach McQualter told reporters on Thursday.
"(His form) is improving. When you miss a lot of football like Soldo has it takes a little bit of time to get your touch back.
"He's certainly in great physical condition - he's a big dude - and with three weeks of footy hopefully he's been able to improve his touch."
Versatile ruck-forward Ryan has played 14 senior games this season but was dropped last week and played back-up to Soldo in the VFL, where he spent most of his time in attack.
The 22-year-old played one of his best AFL games as the lead ruckman in a win over West Coast back in round eight.
"Long-term we think Samson's going to be a No.1 ruck but we also know how hard it is for a young kid to carry the ruck," McQualter said.
"He's shown he's able to do it and he's been a great second ruck at times, as well, and we're really excited about his future."
https://www.afl.com.au/news/976882/tigers-ponder-ruck-replacements-for-suspended-skipper
