Some of Richmond’s most anticipated players are set to make their return to the field in a crucial VFL clash against Geelong this Sunday. Defenders Josh Gibcus and Jayden Short will rejoin the team after significant injury layoffs, marking a pivotal moment for the club as they implement four changes to the side.
For Josh Gibcus, this game will be his first in over 15 months. The 2021 draft pick No.9 has faced a challenging journey since his debut season, managing just two games since the end of 2022 due to a series of long-term injuries. Gibcus has been absent from the field since rupturing his anterior cruciate ligament against Carlton in round one last year, which was only his second game back following a complex hamstring injury.
Gibcus’ Road to Recovery
The 22-year-old Gibcus required secondary knee surgery last year and was unable to run for nine months until January of this year, due to complications with his rehabilitation. His recovery process included a trip to the internationally renowned sports medicine practice Aspetar in Doha at the end of 2023 to address the hamstring injury that sidelined him for his second season. He returned to Qatar last off-season to focus on his knee.
Now, after a gradual build-up over the past few months, the Ballarat native is ready to play managed minutes across three quarters in the VFL. Gibcus, who won Richmond’s best first-year player award in 2022 after playing 18 games, remains a promising talent for the club. Despite the arduous journey back, the club is confident in his potential.
Short’s Return and Team Adjustments
Meanwhile, Jayden Short has been dealing with a calf injury throughout the season, having not played since the Round 9 defeat to Hawthorn in early May. Now fully recovered, the dual premiership Tiger is set to strengthen Jake Batchelor’s squad for Sunday’s clash.
Joining them, Steely Green has been named after a long stint in the AFL side, while Joel Garner also makes a return. Departing the side are Tom Sims and Maurice Rioli, both of whom have been elevated to the AFL team this weekend. Additionally, Tom McKenzie is out with a thumb injury, and Nick Guiney has been omitted.
The first bounce at GMHBA Stadium is set for 12:05pm this Sunday.
Implications for Richmond and the VFL
Richmond’s decision to reintroduce key players like Gibcus and Short could significantly impact their performance in the VFL. Their return not only boosts the team’s defensive capabilities but also provides a morale lift as the club navigates the latter part of the season.
All matches in the 2025 Smithy’s VFL and VFLW seasons will be live-streamed free via the AFL website, AFL Live Official App, and VFL App. Fans eager to follow match updates can stay tuned to Richmond VFL on X and Instagram.
As the team prepares for this critical match, the focus will be on how well Gibcus and Short reintegrate into the squad and the potential ripple effects on Richmond’s overall strategy. Their successful return could set a precedent for handling player injuries and rehabilitations moving forward.
Richmond’s clash with Geelong this Sunday is not just another game; it represents a significant step in the club’s journey this season. The eyes of the fans and the broader AFL community will be watching closely to see how these returning players perform and what it means for the team’s future.
