Tom Lynch to make AFL return for Tigers against Blues in season opener at MCG

Richmond forward Tom Lynch is set to return from injury for the traditional opening clash against Carlton at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Thursday night. This highly anticipated match will undoubtedly receive a boost from Lynch's return to the Richmond team. His experience and strength will positively impact the team's offensive end, making them a more formidable opponent.

Tigers coach Adem Yze has confirmed that Lynch has recovered from a pre-season concussion and has been cleared to play against the Blues. Lynch has only played eight games in the past two seasons due to injuries, and his 2024 season ended in Round 14. Coach Yze emphasized Lynch's importance to the team, especially in a forward line with many young players, highlighting his leadership qualities.

Coach Yze stated, "The players around him really need him, we've got a really young forward line. To have that 'Godfather' there helping out, he'll be in our meetings, and he's obviously a great leader. He'll have his young followers around him... the big fella will bring us contest." Additionally, top draftee Sam Lalor, along with fellow draftees Luke Trainor and Harry Armstrong, will also make their debut against the Blues, adding fresh talent to the team.

On the Blues side, Jack Silvagni will play his first AFL game in exactly 600 days after missing the entire 2024 season due to an ACL tear. Silvagni primarily plays as a forward but will return as a defender in the game against the Tigers. Blues coach Michael Voss has stated that Silvagni's return is the "final piece of the puzzle" for the team's lineup, strengthening their defensive capabilities.

Sam Walsh has recovered from a hamstring injury, and Voss noted that this is the first time since he began coaching the Blues in 2022 that he has been able to use the star midfielder in Round 1. Blues father-son draftee Lucas Camporeale will make his AFL debut, and former GWS Giants defender Nick Haynes will play his first game for Carlton. Voss indicated that he expects Charlie Curnow to return in Round 2 after recovering from a knee injury, further bolstering the team's strength.