Richmond has announced it has awarded debuts to a pair of youngsters for its 2023 season finale against Port Adelaide on Sunday.
Rebounding defenders Tom Brown and James Trezise will make their club debuts when the Tigers battle the Power at Adelaide Oval on Sunday afternoon.
With Richmond eliminated from finals contention this year, and having farewelled club stalwarts Trent Cotchin and Jack Riewoldt last Saturday, interim Richmond coach Andrew McQualter has opted to trial a youthful duo who have bid their time playing for the Tigers' reserves side.
Brown's debut has been highly anticipated by Tigers supporters after the Murray Bushrangers graduate was a first-round draft choice in 2021, while Trezise was elevated to Richmond's AFL list from its VFL crop following selection at this year's Mid-Season Draft.
Double debut! 🤝
Tiger cubs Tom Brown and James Trezise will play their first games for the Club in our final round clash against Port Adelaide.
— Richmond FC 🐯 (@Richmond_FC) August 25, 2023
Richmond VFL senior coach Steve Morris praised Brown following the half-back flanker's influential performance in the Tigers' do-or-die win over North Melbourne VFL last weekend to earn a Wildcard Round berth this Sunday.
"He used the ball brilliantly throughout the game," Morris said.
"His decision-making and ball use is at a high level at AFL standard, and when he's playing at VFL level it really stands out."
Morris was just as impressed by Trezise's game impact against the Roos.
"(Trezise has) continued his good form," Morris said after the weekend's VFL win.
"He impacted both in the air and at ground level, and continues to excite fans."
The duo's maiden inclusion to Richmond's senior side is a loss for the club's reserves, who go into this Sunday's Wildcard Round game against Collingwood VFL down two of its most reliable defensive contributors.
As for Port Adelaide, who have already booked their top-four finals ticket, coach Ken Hinkley has included ruckmen Brynn Teakle and Dante Visentini, as well as forward Francis Evans in his extended squad.
The Tigers and Power will announce their full selected sides at 5:00 PM (AEST) on Friday, with Sunday's clash scheduled for 12:30 PM (AEST).
