Dion Prestia is thriving on the extra responsibility that’s been placed on him in the Richmond midfield through the absence of captain Trent Cotchin.

In the space of four days, Prestia racked up 62 disposals – 32 v Sydney, Round 5, April 20 and then 30 v Melbourne, Round 6, April 24 (including a game-high 10 clearances).

MEMBERSHIP The Hunt Continues in 2019; join as a member today

Prestia, with his ball-winning ability, hard, two-way running and poise, has played a significant role in the Tigers’ recent success.

“Having Trent out of the team for the last couple of weeks, I just thought it was a good time to stand up,” Prestia told 3AW.

“Getting more time (in the midfield), and helping out blokes like Jack Ross and Jack Higgins, who’s been spending more time in the midfield, it’s probably been why I’ve been playing better.

“I’ve just been focusing on how they’re going and helping them as much as possible.”