Richmond’s first pick in last year’s AFL national draft, exciting small forward/midfielder, Jack Higgins, will make his AFL debut against Hawthorn at the MCG on Sunday.

Higgins, taken by the Club at pick 17 overall, had a strong pre-season and was impressive in several practice matches at VFL level.

He also gained some senior experience, playing in the Tigers’ first JLT Community Series match against Essendon at Wangaratta.

Richmond VFL development coach Xavier Clarke provided an insight into Higgins’ progress throughout his first pre-season at the game’s highest level on this week’s edition of ‘Coaches’ Corner’.

“He ran a 10.10 3km time trial, which is elite midfield running . . . His strength stuff in the gym’s been pretty good, too. And he’s been able to understand our game plan pretty quickly and pick that up,” Clarke said.

“His run and ability to be able to get back in defence, and then also join in the attack, is certainly one of his biggest strengths.

“He’s really good in the contest and making tackles . . . And he gets a really good balance between contested and outside possession as well.

“The other good thing about Jack is he’s really dangerous when it goes forward. He knows where the goals are, and he loves a goal . . .”

Richmond's 26-man squad to face Hawthorn on Sunday will be announced on richmondfc.com.au at 6.25pm tonight.