RICHMOND defender Nathan Broad will make his debut against the Brisbane Lions on Saturday after the Tigers were forced to make two late changes for their clash at the MCG. 

Broad, who was recruited as a mature-age draftee last year, replaced defender Jake Batchelor, who has been forced out with a back/hamstring injury.

Key forward Ben Griffiths has also been withdrawn from the team because of illness and replaced by midfielder Jacob Townsend.

Townsend, who was recruited from Greater Western Sydney in last year's exchange period, last played in round five and has been out of favour.  

Broad was recruited with pick No.67 in last year's NAB AFL Draft and has played eight VFL games this season.

The versatile defender was a senior emergency for the Tigers last clash, against Gold Coast in round 12.