Premiership star's retirement extends crazy 121-year record

Richmond premiership utility Shaun Grigg has announced his immediate AFL retirement, prolonging the AFL’s wait for an implausible feat.

Grigg played a key role in the Tigers' 2017 flag triumph as a midfielder who also battled in the ruck at times despite standing at just 190cm.

But knee and hip issues have prevented the 31-year-old from playing this season.

He is the first player Richmond have lost from their triumphant grand final 22.

That means the 121-year streak of VFL/AFL premiers never fielding the same team ever again will continue.

The Tigers’ ability to become the first almost ended when Jacob Townsend looked set to leave during last year’s trade period, but he remains on the list.

Reigning premiers West Coast are already out of the running after Scott Lycett joined Port Adelaide immediately after the 2018 grand final.

The Tigers have been decimated by injuries this season with Toby Nankervis and Jack Ross the latest additions to a casualty list that already includes stars Trent Cotchin (hamstring), Alex Rance (knee) and Jack Riewoldt (knee).

Nankervis (groin) and Ross (ankle) were hurt during Sunday's win over Fremantle in Perth and both face lengthy stints on the sidelines.

Grigg’s retirement paves the way for the club to add to their list through the mid-season draft.

Clubs are only allowed to fill vacancies created by players retiring or being added to the long-term injury list.

Rance, who tore his anterior cruciate ligament in round one, would be an obvious candidate to go on the long-term list but the Tigers haven't given up on the five-time All Australian defender making a stunning late-season return.

Grigg played 214 AFL games – 43 of those for Carlton – and played a key role as a back-up ruckman in the Tigers' 2017 premiership season.

"It's been amazing to play 13 seasons of league football with two great clubs," he said.

"I've loved my football journey, and feel incredibly grateful for the opportunity to play this great game.

"Although it's difficult to make the decision to call time on my own career, it may give the club a chance to provide someone else an opportunity."

Tigers football boss Neil Balme said Grigg had been a valuable contributor on and off the field.

"We've loved the way he's gone about his football - always bringing a team-first attitude to the roles we've asked him to play," Balme said.

"He brings a lot of fun to the club, and has built great connections to his teammates, staff and coaches, and we will miss him."

with AAP