Richmond CEO Brendon Gale said the Club was disappointed the Tigers’ match against the Indigenous All Stars would not take place in Darwin next weekend.

Richmond was advised this afternoon that the game would not go ahead because of the state of the playing surface. An alternative venue is being considered.

“We were really looking forward to the game because it is such an important celebration of Indigenous football,” Gale said.

“It obviously took on added significance for us given the recent passing of Maurice Rioli. It would have been a wonderful opportunity for us to pay tribute to him in a part of Australia that meant so much to him.

“We also had some community activities that were going to take place around the game that would have given us a great chance to engage with local school children.

“The positive is that we have a game against Port Adelaide on Saturday 28 May in Darwin so we still get the opportunity to play in Darwin this year which is pleasing.

“We have not been advised as to whether a different venue can be arranged.

“Clearly Darwin has had an incredible amount of rain in recent times and if the playing surface compromised then the right decision has been made - player safety is of paramount importance.”