Richmond coach Adam Yze acknowledged the need for careful management of Dustin Martin for the remainder of the AFL season after the Tigers’ champion experienced a back problem during Sunday’s game against Carlton.
Martin played a pivotal role in Richmond’s comeback in the second quarter at the MCG but encountered back spasms in the third quarter, leading to his substitution from the match.
Sam Banks has been activated as our substitute, replacing Dustin Martin (back soreness).#AFLTigersBlues | #gotiges
— Richmond FC 🐯 (@Richmond_FC) June 30, 2024
The 33-year-old, whose future beyond this season remains uncertain, concluded the game with only seven disposals, marking his lowest tally in his 301-game career and his first-ever substitution during a match.
“He just tightened up,” Yze remarked post-game. “He attempted to return to the field for one more rotation, but he was struggling, so it became futile.
“I’m not certain if he has ever been substituted before, but against a formidable team like Carlton, it’s crucial to have 18 fit players on the field. Therefore, his decision to admit his back was too sore is commendable.”
Will Dustin Martin need to sit out AFL matches? Yze had previously mentioned his intention to rest Martin following the mid-season break, especially with Richmond facing quick turnarounds ahead of games against Fremantle and Port Adelaide in the coming weeks. Martin will take a day off before returning to Punt Road on Tuesday for further evaluation ahead of Saturday’s match against Fremantle at Optus Stadium.
“We might have to consider him missing games due to his current back issue,” Yze commented. “If he recovers well after the game, there’s a chance he could still play against Freo. We’ll need to have discussions and assess the situation carefully.”
Back soreness for Dustin Martin, who was probably unlikely to play next week with a trip to Perth against Fremantle. Subbed out @FOXFOOTY
— Jon Ralph (@RalphyHeraldSun) June 30, 2024
Dustin Martin faced earlier challenges with a calf problem this season, and Yze described the latest setback with his back as unexpected. “He might have taken a knock out there, which he might not have realized,” the coach added.
“He’s a competitive player and made a significant impact at center bounces in the second quarter, so his absence in the second half was felt. Hopefully, he’ll recover well.”
Richmond has utilized 41 players this season, more than any other club, due to a series of injuries. Dion Prestia (calf) may return against Fremantle, but Tom Lynch (hamstring) is unlikely to play.