Richmond veteran Nathan Broad will proudly pull on the Western Australian guernsey in this month’s 2026 AAMI AFL Origin game.

Born and raised in WA, Broad, who has played 170 games for Richmond since his debut in 2016, will represent his home state in the match, scheduled for February 14 at Optus Stadium.

It’s a massive honour for the 32-year-old defender, who declared being selected for the prestigious team as “an extreme honour”. 

“I was pinching myself when I got the phone call,” Broad said.

“Especially at my age to represent your state, it’s something that I am extremely honoured and grateful for."

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Even more so, the opportunity to represent his family, who are still based in Western Australia, means the most.

“I told Dad, called him first, he was over the moon. Mum’s rapt and Nanna, she loves footy and she’s so proud. She teared up when I was telling her,” Broad said.

“It’s going to be great for my family, to get them there to the game.”

Broad, who is a three-time Richmond premiership player, has been eagerly awaiting the chance to play for the state where his footballing career began.

“My junior clubs, Upper Swan and Chittering Broncos, that’s where I played all my juniors with my best mates,” Broad said.

“I will get them along to the game to represent our junior clubs.”

It will be the first time Western Australia and Victoria have met in a State of Origin match since 1992.

It’s why the Richmond veteran understands the importance of getting the call up, most excited to learn from his fellow Western Australian teammates on the biggest stage.

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“It’s probably one of the coolest parts, seeing how the best go about it. Crippa [Patrick Cripps] is captain, I’m really intrigued to see how he goes leading the team,” Broad said.

“Down back there’s some back men I’ve looked up to along the way, [Tom] Barrass is a key defender, alongside Sam Taylor.

“And my good mate Bakes [Liam Baker] is going to be out there, so we will have a bit of continuity there. I’m honoured to be around some elite players and look forward to learning what they have to offer.

“I can’t wait to pull the jumper on.”

Western Australia face Victoria on Saturday, February 14, at 7.40pm (AEDT), 4.40pm (local time) at Optus Stadium, Perth.

You can watch the 2026 AAMI AFL Origin game on Channel 7, 7Plus, Fox Sports and Kayo Sports.