RICHMOND will be without three important players for Friday night’s clash at the MCG.

Tigers’ captain Trent Cotchin has been ruled out for two weeks with a fractured cheekbone, sustained in his side’s loss to Port Adelaide on the weekend.

Cotchin has arguably been the Tigers’ best player in 2016, averaging 28.5 disposals per match.

Kane Lambert was also injured in the match against the Power, suffering a cracked rib and punctured lung, which will sideline him for up to four weeks.

The Tigers will also be without key defender Alex Rance, who has one more week on the sidelines due to suspension.

But in positive news for the Tigers, Nick Vlastuin and Dylan Grimes could return.

Vlastuin is expected to play at either AFL or VFL level after overcoming a knee injury, while the Tigers hope Grimes will be pushing to return from a hamstring injury.

The Tigers will enter the match in 15^th spot on the ladder, after one win from their first six matches.

However, the Tigers have a good recent record against the Hawks, winning three of the past four matches between the sides.

Jack Riewoldt has enjoyed a strong start to 2016, kicking 16 goals from six matches, while Bachar Houli (26.5 disposals per match) and Dustin Martin (25.2 disposals per match) have also been important players in 2016.