From cricket to the No.1 pick: How Sam Lalor gave up the bat to become the best of the 2024 AFL Draft class

Sam Lalor has been taken with pick No.1 in the 2024 AFL Draft and is heading to Richmond next season, and he did so by surprising some of his family on the way.

The midfield product hails from Bacchus Marsh in Victoria and managed to keep under wraps that he was going with the first pick on Wednesday night.

"They (Richmond) came over to my house on Monday night. I found out then, just told some close family and friends," he said after being drafted.

READ MORE: Manly's big sacrifice in bid to bring Broncos to Brookvale

READ MORE: Powerful club could lining up big play for Origin star

READ MORE: 'Scary as hell': All Blacks hardman's plan to take down Curtis Scott

"But a lot of people here (at Marvel Stadium) I didn't tell, so it was a bit of a surprise for them."

Likened to Richmond great Dustin Martin, Lalor isn't afraid to pull out the 'don't argue' move.

With his ability to play through the middle and rotate as a medium forward, his one-on-one ability means he can impact from multiple angles.

While he struggled with hamstring and quad injuries in 2024, it didn't deter the Tigers from placing their faith in the bolter.

But Lalor admits he's happy that Richmond has a plethora of other top drafts picks, which means the pressure of being the best of his class is eased.

"I think with Richmond this year, they've got a lot of picks, so not all of the spotlight's going to be on me, which is what I'm looking forward to," Lalor said.

Classing himself as a Dave Warner in the off-season, Lalor gave up cricket to pursue his football career.

"Love my cricket, but gave it up to play footy. I still love it, but I think I made the right choice," he said.

Richmond triple premiership skipper Trent Cotchin presented the 18-year-old with his new Richmond jumper.