Richmond coach Damien Hardwick says North Melbourne’s decision to rest players will have no impact on his side’s approach to Friday night’s game.
The Roos announced they will rest up to 8-10 players for the Round 23 clash, with fatigue and injury the main consideration.
“I think every side, and we’re probably similar, is trying to do their best to prepare themselves for the following week,” Hardwick said.
“North’s ladder position realistically can’t change, so each side will do what they think is right to get the best performance out of their players.
“That’s their decision and one I think I’ll leave up to them.”
While North could be without some experienced players for the match at Etihad Stadium, Hardwick said those coming in demanded respect.
“Even those ten players, if they do come in, who knows what they do with their selection, but North Melbourne play the same style.
“The players that come in we expect that they’ll play a role and a similar type of game that they normally play.
“We know how they play … whether or not we are good enough on the day to stop it, we’ll wait and see.”
Hardwick said the Tigers will welcome back captain Trent Cotchin (back) and Brett Deledio will be available despite being on the end of an ugly tackle from Courtenay Dempsey.
Having won eight of its last ten games, Richmond will look to take its good form into September.
“All I can do is worry about our players and get our players to perform to the best of ability, so we’ll have some decisions as well (around selection),” Hardwick added.
“We’ve got some players obviously off a short break so we’ll be making decisions this afternoon, but we’ll have to wait for selection to see that.”
ET: Tigers wary of ins
Damien Hardwick says North’s decision to rest players will have no impact on his side’s approach.