Richmond’s star player, expected to spend more time on the sidelines in what might be his final AFL season, as coach Adam Yze plans to manage his workload. Following a mid-season bye, the Tigers (2-12) return against Carlton at the MCG this Sunday, followed by a match against Fremantle six days later.

Yze stated that due to Martin’s age, currently 33, he won’t be able to participate in both upcoming matches. This decision likely means Martin will miss the game against Fremantle, which falls after the first of several six-day breaks for the club in the next five weeks.

Dustin Martin faces more time on the sidelines in the second half of the AFL season as coach Adem Yze manages his workload. Image: Getty

 

The coach mentioned the club will meet with Martin soon to discuss his playing schedule for the remainder of the 2024 season. “We’ll sit down with him and develop a plan,” Yze said on Thursday. “Given the upcoming scheduling challenges, we’ll need to carefully manage his involvement.”

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - JUNE 15: Dustin Martin of the Tigers recognises the crowd after his 300th match during the 2024 AFL Round 14 match between the Richmond Tigers and the Hawthorn Hawks at The Melbourne Cricket Ground on June 15, 2024 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Michael Willson/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

 

Martin recently took a week off before playing his 300th AFL match, a loss to Hawthorn just before the bye. Despite speculation about his retirement, Martin returned after the break and is expected to finish the season with Richmond.

Ralph Carr, Martin’s manager, confirmed interest from other AFL clubs for 2025 but suggested Martin might play at least one more year. Discussions about his future are typically deferred until the end of the season.

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