Richmond premiership star Josh Caddy is set for an extended period on the AFL sidelines with scans confirming a hamstring injury.
The Tigers on Monday confirmed it would keep the utility out of action for the “medium term”.
It is another blow for the reigning premiers. They were already missing six flag stars when Caddy was injured during last Saturday night’s win over North Melbourne.
Trent Cotchin (hamstring), David Astbury (knee), Dion Prestia and Toby Nankervis (both syndesmosis) were all out injured.
Bachar Houli and Shane Edwards have remained in Melbourne on personal leave rather than joining their teammates in the Queensland hub.
The Tigers are hoping Cotchin and Astbury can return in Friday night’s meeting with last year’s grand final opponents Greater Western Sydney at Giants Stadium.
Caddy will begin his rehabilitation program in the Gold Coast hub.
The 27-year-old had missed round two with a calf injury and has played five matches this season.