Richmond premiership teammates Trent Cotchin and Brandon Ellis return to action in surprise cameo
Cotchin and Ellis will line up for the South West Sydney Blues in their premiers division clash against Pennant Hills at Mike Kenny Oval on Saturday.
Cotchin, who recently turned 35, retired from the AFL at the end of 2023 after a glittering 306-game career, that included three premierships and a Brownlow Medal.
Ellis played alongside Cotchin for eight seasons, including the two premierships in 2017 and 2019 before joining Gold Coast.
He finished his career at the end of last season after amassing 251 games.
The pair join the South West Sydney Blues for a one-off appearance that could have major finals implications.
Currently in sixth place, the Blues could leapfrog Pennant Hills into fifth spot on the ladder at the halfway point of the season.
The top five of the 10-team competition make finals.
The pair will head into the clash in elite shape, having recently completed the Big Five Marathon in South Africa.
Running for Carrie Bickmore's Beanies 4 Brain Cancer, Cotchin and Ellis completed the gruelling run in just over five hours.
Cotchin's wife Brooke ran the half-marathon, clocking an impressive time of 2:26:31.
'This was more than just a marathon, it was an experience, it was about creating memories, it was about leaning into the discomfort, about being part of a team and about raising awareness and funds for critical brain cancer research,' Cotchin wrote on Instagram.
'I learnt so much on this journey and I was again reminded that fulfilment far outweighs achievement and that replacing expectation with appreciation is a powerful tool.
'Finally, I learnt that my wife as amazing as I already knew her, put me on notice for being a far more resilient and talented runner than I.
'Her will and determination, added with her discipline are all examples of how you truly can get the best out of yourself! I was truly so proud of her.
'No words can really describe this experience but it is one I'll be forever grateful for.'
'Mannnn I'm still buzzing from last weekend!!!' Ellis wrote.
'The run itself was so brutal, but I would do it all again to help raise awareness for this vicious disease. Carrie you're doing incredible things, so grateful to do my little part and be on the journey with you.
'I don't think there could've been a more unique crew, but the connection we made over the few days is something I'll cherish forever.'
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