Richmond defender Josh Gibcus will make his long-awaited return to the senior side this weekend, when the Tigers take on Geelong at the MCG, closing out their season.
Gibcus last played at AFL level in Round 1, 2024, when he tore his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) against Carlton.
The former Pick 9 has endured a wretched run of injuries since being picked up in the 2021 National Draft, which has limited his output to a measly 20 games.
The 22-year-old also missed the entire 2023 campaign after a stellar maiden season due to a complex hamstring injury.
The Tigers have slowly been building Gibcus up to full strength since his serious knee injury, which included six VFL outings on varied minutes, working towards a full game in recent weeks.
The tall defender will replace veteran Nick Vlastuin in the senior side as confirmed changes for Saturday's battle with the Cats after he fractured his ankle last week against North Melbourne.
Draftee Luke Trainor was cleared of any hamstring damage despite being subbed from the Kangaroos clash, and will be available for selection, as will Samson Ryan (foot), Campbell Gray (knee) and Jacob Blight (ankle).
Richmond will farewell club icon Kamdyn McIntosh, who was told he will not be receiving a contract for 2026.
