Daniel Rioli has started the season in superb style, producing a dazzling display in Richmond’s season-opener draw with Carlton at the MCG.
The 25-year-old enhanced his growing reputation as one of the competition’s elite rebounding defenders with 27 disposals, seven marks, five rebound-50s, five inside-50s, seven intercepts, five score involvements, four tackles and a game-high 681 metres gained.
Coming off the 2022 season, where he averaged 20.5 disposals, 4.8 marks, 3.3 rebound-50s, 2.8 inside-50s, 5.7 intercepts, 4.7 score involvements, 2.4 tackles and 390.8 metres gained per match, Rioli has settled seamlessly into the half-back role after playing in three premierships with the Tigers as a small forward.
Richmond co-captain Dylan Grimes paid a huge tribute to Rioli during a post-game interview with Channel Seven.
“He’s just such a weapon for us because he’s got a really complete game,” Grimes said.
“I think a few years ago he was very offensive and now he’s got that real balance. He’s a really good defensive and contest player.
“To find that balance as a high back is one of the biggest challenges in the game.
“He’s started the year exactly how he finished last year, which in my opinion is All Australian form. But I don’t want to mozz him too early.”
