Richmond has finalised its line-up for Thursday night's blockbuster Round 1 clash against Carlton at the MCG.

Recruit Robbie Tarrant and draftee Josh Gibcus have both been named to play their first games in the Yellow and Black.

As announced on Tuesday morning, Gibcus will make his AFL debut on Thursday night against the Blues. The key defender, 196cm and 87kg, was Richmond's first selection in the 2021 NAB AFL Draft, taken with pick No. 9.

The eighteen-year-old, named as the best intercept defender in last year's draft pool, turned heads in the Tigers' pre-season outings.

Veteran backman Tarrant, 32, who arrived at Tigerland late last year, will add to the 174 games he played for North Melbourne over 14 years.

Speaking to the media on Tuesday morning, coach Damien Hardwick said the Tigers were "very excited to have him" as an addition to their defence.

"His first game against Geelong, he was a bit apologetic," he said.

"But then he moved forward against Hawthorn and we expect him to take another big step forward against Carlton.

"He's just an A1 bloke and an A1 player."

Both of Richmond's newly-appointed co-captains will lead the Tigers out, with Dylan Grimes having recovered from recent thumb surgery and Toby Nankervis back from AFL Health and Safety Protocols in time for the clash.  

Important midfielder Jack Graham has also proven his fitness and been selected to play, following an interrupted pre-season which included a hamstring injury sustained at Richmond's pre-season camp. 

Richmond's four emergencies for the Round 1 match are Hugo Ralphsmith, Rhyan Mansell, Thomson Dow and Matt Parker. 

The Tigers will confirm which player steps into the 23 to serve as the medical substitute 60 minutes before tomorrow’s game.

The clash will be broadcast live on Channel 7, FOX FOOTY, and Kayo, with the opening bounce set for 7:25pm.

Richmond team v Carlton, Thursday, March 17, 7:25pm AEST, MCG

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