Richmond's emphatic 22-point victory over the top-placed Bulldogs has been soured by injury to captain Trent Cotchin.

The Tigers veteran was subbed out of the match in the final quarter of Friday night's victory after suffering a hamstring injury.

Cotchin was a key contributor in the Tigers' comeback win, with the reigning premiers facing a 25-point deficit in the second-term before clawing back in the second half to hand the Bulldogs their first defeat of the season.

The 31-year-old amassed 24 disposals, 12 contested possessions and seven clearances before being replaced by Patrick Naish in the final minutes of the game.

TRENT COTCHIN
Midfield
Richmond
ROUND 7 STATS
24
Disposals
2
Tackles
7
Clearances

Speaking after the win, Richmond coach Damien Hardwick said he expects Cotchin to miss multiple weeks due to the setback.

"I think it's a hamstring, unfortunately," Hardwick said, per AFL.com.au

"He was incredible tonight, I thought he really led from the front and was part of the resurgence. But he'll obviously miss some weeks, we're not too sure how many it will be.

"It's disappointing. It's just sad to see great players not playing. We're going to miss him for a couple of weeks at least."

While Cotchin will likely be sidelined for his side's Grand Final rematch against Geelong next Friday, the Tigers are expected to welcome back superstar midfielder Dustin Martin, who was sidelined for Round 7 through concussion.

Premiership trio Nick Vlastuin, Kane Lambert and Dion Prestia are unlikely to make their return for the blockbuster showdown.

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - APRIL 14: Kane Lambert of the Tigers celebrates kicking a goal during the round four AFL match between the Richmond Tigers and the Brisbane Lions at Melbourne Cricket Ground on April 14, 2018 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Brett Hemmings/AFL Media/Getty Images)

The Tigers currently sit fifth on the ladder after collecting their fourth win in seven matches, while the Dogs are likely to give up their place atop the league as Melbourne look to continue their undefeated start to the season on Sunday when they face the Kangaroos.