Meanwhile over at Richmond

[Raydan]

Yarran and Hampson’s injury issues are in stark contrast to dual All-Australian defender Alex Rance, whose extended break has taken him from potential retiree to reinvigorated leader.

Richmond’s reigning best and fairest didn’t return to Punt Road until early January after an American holiday with his wife.

“I think he appreciates the extra time off and he’s done the right thing by him and us in terms of the condition he’s come back in,” Richardson said.

“Certainly when players have earned absolute trust ... I think it’s fair for that to be factored in.

This is what I like to see, when you start elevating a person above all others just so he can go on a holiday with his wife. What if Jack, Cotchin and Dusty come to the club next season and ask for the same privileges, how does the club say no? Do the players then think the club doesn't trust them?

All going downhill at Richmond.

Best possible scenario for round 1 - Yarran plays and strains his calf in the first ten minutes while being tackled by Cunningham, who stars and picks up the Rising star nomination for the round.  >