Richmond pair Bachar Houli, Shaun Grigg sign contract extensions

RICHMOND’S list position is becoming clearer with two more senior players signing contract extensions. But there are still some big names yet to commit.

Shaun Grigg kicks at goal. Picture: Michael Klein

RICHMOND’S list position is becoming clearer after re-signing two more senior players.

Defender Bachar Houli and midfielder Shaun Grigg have agreed to contract extensions, with Houli committing until the end of the 2018 season. Grigg was seeking a two-year deal but settled for a one-year extension.

Their signatures follow recent re-signings of Shaun Hampson, Sam Lloyd and key defender David Astbury.

Promising young players Nick Vlastuin and Corey Ellis have also signed contract extensions.

But the Tigers still have several players out of contract including Reece Conca, Ben Griffiths, Jake Batchelor and free agent Ty Vickery.

Western Australian Conca attracted the interest of clubs from his home state when his last contract ended and Vickery has been linked to several clubs including Hawthorn.

With Richmond facing a volatile off-season, contracted stars Brett Deledio and Jack Riewoldt have been thrown up as potential trades but both have declared their loyalty.

Riewoldt said on Monday night he was disappointed his name had become part of trade discussions.

“As far as I’m concerned, I’ve got three years left to go on my contract,” he said.

Bachar Houli has signed a new deal with the Tigers. Picture: Colleen Petch

Both Grigg and Houli joined the Tigers in 2010 and have become core members of the team.

Houli missed 10 games this year which is set to ruin his run of six straight top-10 placings in the best-and-fairest.

Grigg is averaging 24.6 disposals a game this year including a career-high 38 against North Melbourne in Round 11.

Originally published as Richmond pair Bachar Houli, Shaun Grigg sign contract extensions