RICHMOND midfielder Ben Cousins is still awaiting tests to find out the cause of the abdominal pain that prompted his admission to hospital on Thursday afternoon.

Cousins, 31, was admitted to the Epworth Hospital after he sought medical treatment on Thursday morning for persistent stomach pain.

He was required to fast overnight before undergoing tests to discover the cause of the pain.

A Richmond spokesperson told afl.com.au on Friday morning the tests were scheduled for the afternoon.

It is not yet known if he will require a second night in hospital.

Richmond's general manager of football Craig Cameron previously said there was no reason for undue concern and the hospitalisation was precautionary.

"Ben's condition does not appear serious but as a precautionary measure we would like some tests done to see what the problem is," Cameron told richmondfc.com.au on Thursday night. 

"It is doubtful that Ben will play against Essendon in the NAB Challenge match in Morwell on Saturday."

Cousins suffered a serious hamstring injury in round one, 2009; his comeback to football and debut as a Tiger.

He eventually played 15 matches for the year and had been enjoying a smooth pre-season until the recent illness struck.

More to follow.