Sam Cumming parlayed a promising AFL debut for Richmond in the Anzac Day Eve clash with Melbourne into a strong second-up display against West Coast at Optus Stadium.

The talented, tough, teenage midfielder, who was the Tigers’ first pick (No. 7 overall) in the 2025 AFL national draft, showcased his impressive football attributes throughout the contest – hard two-way running, competitiveness, ball-winning ability, quick hands and the capacity to play as both an inside and outside 'mid'.

He had an important role in Richmond’s gutsy win, finishing the match with 23 disposals, seven contested possessions, six inside-50s, four score involvements, three intercepts, six tackles and 304 metres gained.

The Tigers’ coach Adem Yze was extremely impressed with how Cumming adapted to more midfield responsibility, and his productivity across the four quarters against the Eagles.

“Sammy Cumming played a terrific game,” Yze said.

“We wanted to give him some more exposure, because of what we’re going through, and he took another step in his career.”