3 minute read

First-year midfielder Judson Clarke is one of three inclusions for Richmond, who take on Port Adelaide in the opening game of round 13 in the AFL.

Richmond have selected teenager Judson Clarke to make his AFL debut in Thursday night's meeting with Port Adelaide.

Clarke is one of three inclusions for the Tigers, who can break into the top eight with a win at the MCG.

Premiership stars Noah Balta and Marlion Pickett return, while spearhead Jack Riewoldt has been named despite spending several nights in hospital last week with a finger injury.

Jason Castagna, Jack Ross and Maurice Rioli have all been dropped from the side that lost a thriller against Sydney before the bye.

Port Adelaide, who need a win to stay within touching distance of the top eight, have left out Sam Hayes and named key forward Jeremy Finlayson in the ruck.

Clarke was Richmond's fifth pick at last year's national draft, taken 30th overall.

The 18-year-old is a hard-running left-footer who has been playing as a midfielder and forward in the Tigers' reserves team.

He has averaged 14.3 disposals and kicked 11 goals in nine VFL games.

Clarke's debut comes in Tigers co-captain Dylan Grimes' 200th game.

"That will be pretty cool to run out with someone in my milestone and their first milestone as well," Grimes said.

Clarke will be Richmond's fourth debutant this season, following Josh Gibcus, Bigoa Nyuon and Noah Cumberland.