Richmond moved swiftly to lock down Shai Bolton on a long-term deal in a bid to ward off any potential poach from WA teams West Coast and Fremantle, the Tigers have revealed.
A two-time premiership Tiger, Bolton revealed he signed a five-year contract extension on Tuesday to remain at the club until at least the end of 2028.
The 24-year-old, who received his first All Australian honours after a brilliant 2022 campaign, said it was a “pretty easy” decision to remain at Punt Road.
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“Of course we had to take that (potential lure home) into account. We try very hard to get them to fit, and make the club their home.
“It’s always in the background … if you’re from somewhere else and your focus and family are over there, there’s always drive. And other clubs, as they should, take advantage of that so that was part of it (the new deal), yes.”
Footy commentator Kane Cornes said he’d love to know what Bolton’s new deal was worth, considering the mid-forward “worth every cent”.
“At 24 years of age he just has an incredible future,” he said on SEN.
Suns midfielder signs on for extension | 00:24
“(He’s) a nightmare matchup for anyone.”
Tigers footy boss Blair Hartley labelled Bolton an “important part” of the team, with his signature “brilliant news” heading into the Christmas break.
“He has worked tirelessly to elevate his game in each season he’s had with us. We are excited about what he can achieve individually and with us as a team as he continues to flourish as a footballer and leader,” he said.
