Richmond star Noah Balta banned for four matches following assault charge

Richmond star player Noah Balta has been suspended for four Australian Football League games following an off-field incident that led to assault charges. In addition, Balta will also miss two pre-season games for the Tigers and will complete education programs and counseling.

The 2020 premiership defender will be permitted to train with his teammates during his suspension, a penalty that has the support of the Australian Football League. This punishment stems from assault charges against Balta following an incident in Mulwala, on the New South Wales-Victoria border, on December 30.

The 25-year-old is scheduled to appear at Corowa Local Court on January 30. Police had stated at the time that a 27-year-old man was taken to Yarrawonga Hospital with head injuries and was in a stable condition. “Noah is deeply remorseful for his involvement in the incident,” Richmond CEO Brendon Gale said in a club statement on Thursday.

Gale also said, “He has assisted NSW Police with their inquiries and is keen to see the matter resolved as quickly as possible. While the findings and charges will be determined by police and the courts, both Noah and the Club understand that players cannot put themselves in these situations.” Richmond’s senior players were consulted before the club decided on the penalty for Balta.

Gale explained, “After full consideration – including discussions with the player leadership group – we have made a decision that reflects the seriousness of the incident but also helps Noah address this behavior. The Club will continue to support him through this period, and our collective hope and expectation is that we will see the best of Noah on and off the field from this point forward.”

The Australian Football League said on Thursday it supported Richmond's decision to suspend Balta. “The AFL has been kept informed by the Richmond Football Club of developments and supports the club’s response and penalty,” the league said in a statement. “The AFL will continue to monitor the ongoing court case.”

Balta is a key part of Richmond’s rebuild under second-year coach Adam Yze, having signed a lucrative seven-year contract in October. The deal ties the 104-game defender to the Tigers until the end of the 2032 season.