Former St Kilda star Nick Dal Santo doesn’t believe Marlion Pickett is 'a lock' in Richmond's best 22.

Pickett had a debut no one will forget in last year’s Grand Final and enjoyed arguably his best performance to date in Wednesday night's win against Fremantle

He finished with 19 disposals, 10 kicks, nine handballs, three tackles and two clearances.

Pickett has played 13 of the 15 games this season but still faces a battle at the selection table.

Dal Santo said Pickett is currently in a battle to find his role in Richmond's best 22 with just two home and away matches remaining.

“No I don’t think he’s a lock in (Richmond’s best 22) and not yet,” Dal Santo said on AFL Nation.

“We’ve spoken about Jake Aarts just before, he hasn’t put a foot wrong and there are still a few players to come back but (Aarts) hasn’t done much wrong.”

The Tigers have the likes of Dylan Grimes, David Astbury, Josh Caddy and Dion Prestia all set to return before finals.

Shane Edwards is expected to be available for a return in Round 18.

Dwayne Russell believes Jack Higgins is another player fighting for selection.

The former Pick 17 has played 10 games in 2020, returning to the side in last night's win.

“He needs to play some good footy to keep his spot,” Russell said