AFL reporter Caroline Wilson understands Richmond and the league are at “war” and suggested that Shai Bolton’s $20,000 fine is linked to an alleged feud.
Bolton was fined by the AFL for his involvement in a nightclub fight involving Tigers teammate Daniel Rioli with coach Damien Hardwick defending the pair’s actions.
Wilson claims that Hardwick and Richmond CEO Brendon Gale’s complaints over the club’s home game against GWS at Marvel Stadium has triggered a bitter dispute between the reigning premiers and the AFL.
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“There is no doubt there is a war going on behind closed doors between Richmond and the AFL. Damien Hardwick is the front man, but he's not the only man,” Wilson told Channel Nine’s Footy Classified.
“I have no doubt that if the AFL is true to form, Richmond will not get one, but probably two games at Marvel Stadium next year.
“That was ridiculous what Damien Hardwick said, particularly after a big win. There is a bit of hubris there from the coach.
“The AFL was saying that Richmond had really nothing to answer for … that was the feeling coming from both Richmond and the AFL.
“Then suddenly, Bolton is fined $20,000 out of nowhere. Someone has apparently hit Daniel Rioli and yet no one has been charged. We still haven’t been told how Bolton broke his wrist.
“That is a massive fine and there is something that has gone on. Is there anger at what Damien Hardwick said? Certainly Gillon McLachlan was angry.
“I absolutely think there is spite there on both sides.”