Adelaide has sunk to a new low, as Richmond snatched an eight-point victory away from home on Thursday night – and without superstar Dustin Martin in tow.
The Tigers’ only two wins of 2024 have come without Martin in the side, a far cry from their premiership winnings days between 2017 to 2020.
It hints that a new era is dawning at Richmond under coach Adem Yze.
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Despite a late final term surge from the Crows, Richmond’s six-goals-to-three third quarter held them in good stead to record a stellar victory in enemy territory.
It raises questions around whether Martin will play on in 2024, with the Tigers already hinting that they’re at the beginning of a long term rebuild.
The Tigers celebrate their win over Adelaide, without Dustin Martin in the side. AFL Photos via Getty Images
Martin missed the clash interstate with illness, as he gears up for his 300th AFL game at the MCG in round 14 against Hawthorn.
But with Richmond winning both of their games so far this season without the triple premiership winner and triple Norm Smith medallist in the side, will Yze look to continue with Martin in the side after game 300?
The 32-year-old midfielder is yet to confirm his next career move, as his mega nine-year deal comes to an end this season.
At the end of May, Australian football legend Leigh Matthews expressed his fears as Martin reaches the twilight of a decorated career.
Martin will need to decide if he plays on at season’s end. via Getty Images
“The ageing process is on his (Martin’s) shoulders,” Matthew said on Nine’s Footy Furnace.
“What the ageing process means is that you play less good games and more poor games.
“I think that’s where Dusty is in his career.”
Martin will celebrate game 300 at the MCG next week, turning away from any press conferences.
Instead, he’ll be interviewed by retired Richmond premiership captain Trent Cotchin.