Richmond coach Damien Hardwick has declared premiership duo Nick Vlastuin and Josh Caddy fit and available to take on Collingwood.

Vlastuin (calf) and Caddy (hamstring) were absent from last week’s win over Melbourne that sent the Tigers to the top of the AFL ladder.

“They’re ready to go … those boys are fine,” Hardwick told reporters on Friday.

“They’ve already passed that fitness test, so they’ll have a little kick and a catch on Saturday and be ready to go.

“All the guys that played last week have pulled up really well so they’re available … we’re in a really good place at the moment.”

Hardwick has some tough choices to make at final selection with Jack Graham also available for Sunday’s big clash after serving a one-match suspension.

Instant cult hero Jack Higgins backed up two goals on debut with a three-goal effort against the Demons, but Hardwick wouldn’t guarantee the exciting 19-year-old will keep his spot.

Sunday’s encounter is being touted as the first genuine blockbuster between the two traditional power clubs in a long time.

The Tigers (4-1) sit atop the AFL ladder for the first time in the regular season since 1995, while the Pies (3-2) are fifth after their resounding Anzac Day win over Essendon.

“I think ladder positions are irrelevant for these sort of games,” Hardwick said.

“Although ladder position would say they haven’t been blockbusters I think they’ve always been really close.

“Every year it’s a formidable contest. They’re a fantastic side and the they’re playing they’re a really form side in the competition.

“The numbers say that and we know we’re in for a big challenge.”