St Kilda’s top draft pick Jack Billings will use Saturday’s VFL practice match to push his claims for a senior debut, but the Saints have adopted a cautious approach with the talented midfielder they hope will emerge as a key player over the next decade.
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Billings is set to play only half a game for Sandringham against Frankston at Frankston Oval as the Saints manage his training load.
The former Oakleigh Charger had a couple of minor setbacks through the pre-season which prompted a reduction in his training. He suffered a quad strain during the high-altitude camp in Colorado and the Saints are also mindful of any avoiding another flare up in his shins.
While the Saints mull over Billings' selection heading into next week’s season opener against Melbourne, fellow draftee Luke Dunstan is expected to make his debut. Dreadlocked rookie Eli Templeton could be elevated and come into calculations for a team that will be missing Lenny Hayes, Leigh Montagna and Jack Steven.
Sam Fisher, who has not played through the pre-season because of hamstring soreness, will need a strong week at training to secure his selection. Former Hawk Shane Savage is likely to debut for his new club.
While the Saints have established their long-term vision, notably a premiership by 2020, coach Alan Richardson says the rebuilding playing list is keen to be competitive as soon as possible.
"The reality is, we will try and fast-track that projection. That is just football and [as] coaches, we are very, very determined to be successful," he said.
"Our leadership group led by Nick [Riewoldt] has openly expressed how disappointed, almost embarrassed, they have been with their performance [over] the last couple of years. Whilst there are no illusions that we are on a rebuild, we will make sure we will be as competitive as we can be as soon as we can be.
"That might be round one, that might be round 10 but, in terms of the work that goes on behind the scenes to make sure that we get there, we are incredibly committed to the team to make sure we are prepared to roll the sleeves up to get it done."
