Richmond and North Melbourne are both forced to make substitutes due to ankle problems.

A Kangaroos recruit and a Tigers rookie have suffered setbacks in Saturday’s clash.

Ankle injuries saw both North Melbourne and Richmond forced into sub changes during Saturday’s clash at Marvel Stadium, with a Kangaroos recruit and a Tigers rookie both ruled out in the third term.

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA – AUGUST 03: Dylan Stephens of the Kangaroos handballs whilst being tackled by Liam Baker of the Tigers during the round 21 AFL match between North Melbourne Kangaroos and Richmond Tigers at Marvel Stadium, on August 03, 2024, in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Daniel Pockett/Getty Images)

Roos midfielder Dylan Stephens was hampered by an ankle injury during the first half but managed to return to the field following some assessment from medical staff.

North Melbourne eventually decided to put the former Swan on ice for the remainder of the match during the third quarter, with Stephens replaced by tactical sub Robert Hansen less than 10 minutes into the second half.

The 23-year-old has played seven straight games under Alastair Clarkson after breaking back into the senior side at Arden Street, with Stephens enduring a difficult first season in the blue and white to have one win to his name at his new club.