Tom Lynch kicks the ball during Richmond's clash with Carlton in round one, 2022. Picture: AFL Photos

RICHMOND spearhead Tom Lynch is a chance to feature in the Tigers' practice match against Melbourne next week, as he continues to recover from a plantar fasciitis issue.

Lynch has had a very gradual return to pre-season training, and is back training with the main group.

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A handful of players are a chance to join Lynch against the Demons, having been ruled out of Friday's match simulation against North Melbourne.

Rising youngster Tyler Sonsie is recovering from a minor hip flexor injury, while Nathan Broad (hamstring) is building in his rehab. Liam Baker (appendix) is an outside chance to play Melbourne, with a clearer picture to emerge next week.

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Jack Graham will miss the pre-season matches as he continues to build back from a toe issue, and is back doing skill work with the main group.

Small forward Jason Castagna (hamstring) has also been ruled out of pre-season matches.

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A handful of younger players are recuperating from a variety of injuries, pushing out Richmond's injury list to nine before the season has begun:

  • Josh Gibcus (hamstring surgery) has returned to running
  • Jacob Bauer (ankle) is dealing with a minor syndesmosis injury and will start running by the end of the week
  • Kaleb Smith (foot) is into his fifth week in a moon boot, with an eye to return to full weight-bearing next week