Pre-season mail: Axed Saint now Tigers’ Round 1 bolterChris Cavanagh
Herald Sun
16 Feb 2019RICHMONDWHO’S FITSmall forward Dan Butler is ready to go and determined to make amends after missing the second half of last season with an ankle injury.
The Tigers say midfielder Dustin Martin is also fit and firing both physically and mentally after finishing last season “a little sore”.
Defender Brandon Ellis, who was dropped for last year’s finals series, is preparing for a new role in the midfield this season.
WHO’S HURTAll eyes remain on star recruit Tom Lynch, who is yet to join in full training after suffering a posterior cruciate ligament injury last June.
The Tigers say they will not rush Lynch back but believe he is on track to tackle Carlton in Round 1.
Midfielder Jack Graham is also expected to be ready for Round 1 after having post-season shoulder surgery.
Forward Jason Castagna is recovering from a high ankle sprain, while defender Ryan Garthwaite has been on limited duties with an Achilles complaint
WHO’S IMPRESSINGRichmond’s top draft pick last year at No.20, Riley Collier-Dawkins has made his presence felt on the track over pre-season, particularly at the club’s camp on the Gold Coast last month.
The Tigers expect the 19-year-old to play some senior football relatively early in the season.
Former Saint Maverick Weller is also pushing his case for an early-season debut in his new colours as he continues to train well with the forwards group.
Speedy young midfielder Sydney Stack has been added to the Tigers’ list through the pre-season supplemental selection period and could play significant senior football this year.
https://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/afl/more-news/whos-fit-hurt-and-impressing-how-your-club-is-shaping-up-for-season-2019/news-story/0d876ecddcff8ef1426432d037af449c