Emerging Richmond midfielder Kamdyn McIntosh, understandably, had modest expectations going into season 2015.

McIntosh had endured a frustrating injury run in his first couple of years at Tigerland, so his main aim was to break into the senior side and play a few games.

After appearing in all 22 games during the home-and-away season, picking up a Rising Star nomination along the way, and now preparing for the Tigers’ big elimination final clash with North Melbourne at the MCG on Sunday, it’s fair to say McIntosh has well and truly exceeded his expectations.

Visit Richmond’s finals hub for all information relating to this week’s elimination final

The 21-year-old is averaging 15.4 disposals and 4.1 marks per game in his debut season of league football.  He’s ranked first among Rising Star nominees for total kicks, third for marks, fourth for total disposals, fourth for rebound-50s, sixth for inside-50s, ninth for goal assists and 10th for clearances.

“I didn’t think I was going to play the whole season, to be honest.  But I’ve ticked that off,” McIntosh said at today’s AFL Rising Star award function.

“To play finals is another one I’d love to tick off. 

“So, going into this week will be awesome.”

 “I’m trying not to think about it too much at the moment . . .

“There’s been talk there could be 90,000 there this week . . . I’m trying to relax during the week and get everything right body-wise going into the game.

“Hopefully, I’ll prepare and play well.”

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