Trent Cotchin has downplayed the possibility of Dustin Martin reversing his retirement decision to join the Gold Coast Suns in 2024, stating there is only a “zero to one per cent chance” of it happening. Recently, it was revealed that Martin had approached the Suns about a potential move, just weeks after his apparent retirement from the AFL.
Martin received a heartfelt farewell at the MCG during Richmond’s final home game of the season, which happened to be against the Gold Coast Suns. According to the *Herald Sun*, Martin has had discussions with Suns coach Damien Hardwick, sparking speculation of a possible reunion with his former Tigers premiership coach. The Suns confirmed Martin’s approach in a statement to the publication.
Trent Cotchin has cast serious doubt on the possibility of Dustin Martin reversing his retirement to join the Gold Coast Suns, stating there’s a “zero to one per cent chance” it will happen. Speaking on Channel Seven’s *Talking Footy*, the former Richmond captain expressed skepticism about Martin pulling on any guernsey other than Richmond’s, despite rumors of a potential move to the Suns, where former Tigers coach Damien Hardwick is now at the helm.
Cotchin acknowledged the appeal for the Suns and Hardwick in teasing the idea, saying, “You can understand why… but I hope it doesn’t happen because of the love I have for him and the idea of him being a one-club player.” He added that while a fresh start could appeal to Martin, it would be a significant change for him at this stage of his career.
The saga surrounding Martin’s potential move has caused some controversy, particularly as the AFL awaits his final decision, with a deadline until October before his retirement papers are lodged. If he chooses to play on, Martin would be available as a free agent at a relatively low list position value of $300,000, with Richmond receiving no compensation. This aspect of the situation has drawn criticism from AFL pundits like Kane Cornes.
Richmond legend Dustin Martin appeared to farewell the AFL during the Tigers’ home game against the Suns. Pic: Getty
“It’s a really ordinary look for Dustin Martin. For him to basically not want to play this year and in the background pushing to get to another club,” Cornes said on SEN Radio. “If he wants to continue, stay at Richmond. Finish as a Richmond player. That’s what he should be doing. He didn’t want to play this year and he’s been trying to get to another club and pushing that. In five years time we won’t remember this and it won’t affect his legacy, but if there’s motivation to play it should be at Richmond, not Gold Coast.”
Martin did not enjoy the best season for the Tigers in 2024 having played 13 games in the club’s horror campaign. Martin averaged 17.4 disposals, which was down from his career average of 24.2. He was well below his career average of kicks per game with just 9.8 and averaged less than a goal per game.
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