Where and when: MCG, Thursday March 19, 7.40pm AEDT

Last time they met: MCG, round 21, 2019: Richmond 11.7 (73) defeated Carlton 6.9 (45)

TV and online: Click here for broadcast guide

What it means for Richmond: A win – and a big one – will declare that the strong force that stormed to last year's premiership is just as motivated and gunning for another. 

What it means for Carlton: It would be a massive statement to upend the premiers in the season-opener, especially given it hasn't won the round one clash since 2012.

The stat: Will Dustin Martin get off the chain? In the last three season-openers, he's cleared 30 disposals and been an influence, especially in 2017 when he booted four goals as well.

The match-up: Trent Cotchin v Patrick Cripps

They starred in last year's opening round, so we're looking forward to seeing the competition's No.43-ranked midfielder from 2019 (Cotchin) versus the No.6 overall (Cripps). 

In the spotlight: Jack Martin

He had to go the long way around to get to the Blues from Gold Coast, and he'll be keen to show he was worth all the trouble when he runs out on the big (fan-less) stage. 

Big call: Marlion Pickett to kick the game's first goal (and four for the night), starting his season on the same fairytale note he ended his 2019 campaign on.

Prediction: Tigers by 23 points