RICHMOND defender Bachar Houli has capped a career-best season by inking a new contract at Punt Road for 2020. 

Fresh off his maiden Virgin Australia AFL All Australian blazer, the 31-year-old will extend his AFL career into a 14th season.

Despite averaging a career-high 27.7 disposals this season, the former Bomber was forced to wait until recent weeks to receive a contract offer.

He has also provided a significant contribution off-field after launching the Bachar Houli Foundation, focusing on football and leadership programs for Islamic youth.

"I'm very happy to continue my football career at Richmond, and to launch the Foundation that will support Islamic youth to develop their leadership and cultural connection," Houli said.

Bachar Houli with Patrick Dangerfield amd Jeremy Cameron at the Virgin Australia AFL All Australian awards


"I'm really proud of the work we've achieved so far with all of our programs, and I'm incredibly excited to take our work to the next level with the establishment of the Foundation with the Richmond Football Club."

Houli's announcement comes just two days after youngsters Shai Bolton and Patrick Naish extended until the end of 2021.

It leaves restricted free agent Brandon Ellis, Daniel Butler, Jacob Townsend, Connor Menadue, Callum Moore, Derek Eggmolesse-Smith and Mav Weller among Tigers out-of-contract.

An extension for veteran Shane Edwards is expected to be announced in coming days.

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