In a significant development for the eagerly anticipated return of state-versus-state football, Richmond defender Nathan Broad has earned a coveted call-up to represent Western Australia in the AFL Origin clash. The three-time premiership veteran is set to feature in the blockbuster match at Perth's Optus Stadium on February 14, marking a proud moment for both the player and his home state.
Broad Becomes First Tiger Selected for AFL Origin
According to reports from Channel 7's Mitch Cleary, Broad will become the first Richmond player to be selected for either side in the revived state competition. This selection recognizes his consistent performances and leadership within a young Tigers defence over the past decade. Broad, who was drafted as a mature-aged recruit from WAFL club Swan Districts in 2015, played instrumental roles in Richmond's premiership triumphs in 2017, 2019, and 2020.
Completing the State Representation Puzzle
Cleary's reporting also indicates that North Melbourne ruckman Tristan Xerri will line up for Victoria, ensuring that all eighteen AFL clubs will have representation in the Perth showdown. This comprehensive club participation underscores the significance of the event's return to the football calendar after an extended absence.
Broad's selection adds to an already impressive WA squad that includes twenty-one publicly announced players. The West Australian has revealed that West Coast forward Jake Waterman and Western Bulldogs ruckman Tim English will also feature for the home side, though these selections await official confirmation.
Squad Finalizations and Injury Concerns
West Coast defender Reuben Ginbey emerges as a leading contender for one of the remaining spots in the Sandgropers' squad. However, he won't be joined by fellow Eagle Brady Hough, who suffered an ankle injury during training last week that will sideline him for approximately one month.
Fremantle recruit Judd McVee and veteran Jaeger O'Meara remain hopeful of earning late call-ups for WA, while Dockers forward Josh Treacy awaits confirmation of his place in Victoria's lineup. Both state squads are expected to be finalized later this week before teams enter their Perth training camps next week.
Western Australia's Confirmed and Reported Squad
The following players have been confirmed or reported for WA's AFL Origin squad:
- Patrick Cripps (captain)
- Aaron Naughton
- Brad Hill
- Brandon Starcevich
- Callum Ah Chee
- Chad Warner
- Charlie Cameron
- Darcy Cameron
- Jake Waterman*
- Jesse Hogan
- Jordan Clark
- Kysaiah Pickett
- Lawson Humphries
- Liam Baker
- Luke Jackson
- Mitch Georgiades
- Nathan Broad*
- Rory Lobb
- Sam Taylor
- Shai Bolton
- Tim English*
- Tom Barrass
- Trent Rivers
- Wil Powell
*Selections reported by The West Australian and Channel 7 but not yet officially confirmed.
With 170 games over ten seasons at Richmond, including twenty-two appearances in both 2024 and 2025, Broad brings valuable experience and defensive stability to the WA lineup. His selection represents not just personal achievement but also highlights the depth of talent developed through Western Australian football pathways.
