AFL investigating coronavirus mini-draft to help clubs whose players contract COVID-19
The AFL could expand lists by up to 15 players via a radical mini-draft to help clubs whose players contract the deadly coronavirus.
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The AFL is investigating the radical step of a coronavirus mini-draft to expand lists by up to 15 as cover for players who contract COVID-19.
The AFL remains determined to play round one of the 2020 season, albeit in empty stadiums, next week after the Federal Government banned non-essential gatherings of more than 500 people.
Meetings over the weekend and on Monday are expected to determine if the WAFL season goes ahead on schedule.
The West Australian Football Commission held talks with the AFL this week and is expected to meet club officials this weekend to discuss the financial implications in the likely event of a fan lockout.
There is now also a possibility that the WAFL could lose a significant number of players if the league decides to top up lists.
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The Weekend West has reported top-up players would be paid only if they were required to play.
The league has also looked at the possibility of using its bye weekends for matches if the season is disrupted.
It could take the season into at least early October. There is also the strong likelihood of charter flights to transport teams interstate, avoiding contact with the public both on flights and at airport terminals.
AFL chief executive Gillon McLachlan said on Friday no fans would be allowed into games for the “foreseeable future”.
People who bought tickets for Round 1 via Ticketmaster and Ticketek will receive a refund, and club members will be contacted.
McLachlan said there were different scenarios across the country in different states, and the league would continue to speak with the Australian Government and the State and Territory governments and medical authorities.
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Originally published as AFL investigating coronavirus mini-draft to help clubs whose players contract COVID-19