RICHMOND and Gold Coast will be taking off the gloves for a huge Monday night encounter at the Gabba from 7.10pm AEST.

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The improved Suns are desperate for a win after a draw and three losses in their past four encounters.

The Tigers are also keen to bounce back after a a disappointing loss to Port Adelaide in round 11. The four points will also help solidify Richmond's position in the eight and move them a game clear of seventh-placed Collingwood and a game-and-half clear of Melbourne.

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It will be the first time Brandon Ellis plays against his old club after leaving Richmond at the end of last season with his second premiership medal.

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But the Suns will go into the clash without stars Jarrod Harbrow and David Swallow who are both being 'managed'.

Josh Caddy headlines the omissions for the Tigers.

Captain Trent Cotchin is back after being rested from Saturday's loss to Port Adelaide, following a four-game absence earlier in the season with a hamstring setback. 

Another premiership player, Jack Graham – after twice being dropped this season – and Oleg Markov round out the Tigers' inclusions. 

Derek Eggmolesse-Smith and Jackson Ross also lost their spots, with Caddy paying the price for a lean run of form and also a major indiscretion last week that cost Richmond a goal in the clash with Port.