Nathan Broad’s AFL exile is over.
The Richmond defender is one of three inclusions in the Tigers side to face Melbourne on Anzac Day eve.
Damien Hardwick confirmed on Monday that injured pair Josh Caddy (hamstring) and Nick Vlastuin (calf) would join suspended youngster Jack Graham on the sidelines for the MCG clash.
Their absence opened the door for Broad to resume his AFL career after serving a club-imposed ban over the first three rounds of the season.
The 25-year-old was suspended after he circulated a photo of a topless woman on social media without her consent following the Tigers’ grand final win over Adelaide.
Broad and fellow inclusions Sam Lloyd and Jack Higgins were kept out of Richmond’s VFL match at the weekend to keep them fresh for the MCG showdown.
Higgins kicked two goals on debut against Hawthorn and was perhaps unlucky to be dropped for last week’s 93-point win over Brisbane.
Brownlow Medal winner Dustin Martin booted six goals against the Lions after spending more time in attack.
Hardwick played his cards close to his chest when asked if that was a sign of things to come.
“It was probably more circumstances last week and it changes week to week,” Hardwick said.
“I’d love to say I’ve got a say over it, but Dusty dictates where he goes and I’m happy to back him in either way.
“He’s got an understanding of what his opponent is doing to him and where he can best get an advantage from that and that’s why we love the great players.”
The reigning premiers are fourth on the ladder with a 3-1 record going into the clash and have the opportunity to go top with a win.
Melbourne, widely tipped to be big improvers this season, are 14th with a 2-2 record.
The Demons will be out to prove they’re a better side than was on display in a 67-point thrashing at the hands of the Hawks last week.
“Melbourne are a high-contest, high-pressure side, as are we, so it’s going to be a fierce contest regardless of last week,” Hardwick said.
“We can only go on what we know and the numbers indicate it’s going to be that type of contest.
“And we embrace that and accept that.”
