AFL informs clubs it does not expect list sizes to drop in 2022
List managers are scrambling to set their trade period agendas after the AFL provided clarity on list sizes. Plus, see which players face an uncertain future.
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The AFL has finally delivered clarity on list sizes for next year, leaving club list managers scrambling to set their agendas for the coming trade period.
The league told clubs on Wednesday - just three weeks before the end of the season - they did not expect to drop list sizes from 42 in 2022.
Until now list managers feared the financial impact of the ongoing Covid-19 crisis could force player numbers to be cut.
The list managers feared a number players would be kept in the dark about their future until October.
SCROLL DOWN TO SEE 10 PLAYERS WITH CAREERS IN LIMBO
Clubs were also told on Wednesday that players could now spend a fourth year on their lists as a Category A or B rookie. Previously it was three straight years.
They were also told they must select a minimum of three players at this year’s national draft — a return to normal rules that will place pressure on ageing players on club lists.
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Last year clubs only had to take one player at the draft.
The AFL had been left with a void in the list management space after the departure of Steve Hocking.
On top of the loss of Hocking, Josh Vanderloo and his brief replacement as the league’s head of list management and game analysis, Kon Karavias, accepted jobs this year at Hawthorn and Western Bulldogs, respectively.
A nine per cent reduction negotiated last year for the 2021 salary cap saw it plummet from $14.5 million to $13.2 million, which caused list bosses headaches, given players took only a 3.5 per cent cut.
Clubs made up that deficit in different ways, including some negotiating for their players to accept a seven per cent decrease, and certain ones are under greater salary cap stress.
List managers continue to plan as if they will have $14.8 million to work with for next season, but are also writing clauses into individual contracts that offer the flexibility to go up or down.
Any further CBA tweaks would require an AFLPA-mandated 75 per cent of players agreeing, which is a major stumbling block.
No changes will be made for next season if an agreement isn’t struck by this year.
UNDER THREAT?
10 veterans facing an uncertain future heading into the trade period
Daniel Talia (Adelaide)
The unrestricted free agent, who will miss the entire season with a foot injury, can sign with another club of his choice but has so far publicly stated he wants to stay. Essendon inquired about him last year, so could the Bombers be an option again?
Grant Birchall (Brisbane)
Birchall’s form has dipped in recent weeks, but he’s barely missed a game since crossing to the Lions two years ago. A decision from both sides is unlikely to be made until post-season.
Levi Casboult (Carlton)
Has played only one game since being dropped for Round 12, including a VFL suspension and now a knee injury. The 31-year-old will hope to remain on the list as depth, given he can play at both ends and in the ruck.
Cale Hooker (Essendon)
Kicked only four goals in six games before being dropped last week. Was enjoying a pretty strong season before that, but turns 33 in October and the Bombers have some promising young talls.
Stephen Hill (Fremantle)
Suffered another hamstring setback two weekends ago and hasn’t been sighted at senior level this season. Was once one of the Dockers’ most important players, but at age 31 and on a youth-filled list, he faces a nervous wait.
Lachie Henderson (Geelong)
Remains a first-choice defensive option two years after barely surviving on the list. Is the safest player among this group, particularly since age is no barrier at the Cattery, but will be 32 by December.
Sam Reid (GWS Giants)
Brought up his 100th match this season but turns 32 in November, has had a few injury issues and is very much a role player. The Giants’ list composition might work in his favour.
Tom Rockliff (Port Adelaide)
Opportunities were few and far between for the 31-year-old midfielder this year, even before he was diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis. Will have to bide his time.
Jake Carlisle (St Kilda)
Recovering from a second bout of back surgery in three seasons and already had to wait until November last year to score a deal for 2021. Won’t turn 30 until October, so his physical health might be the biggest factor.
Callum Sinclair (Sydney)
Sinclair’s tumbled down the ruck and key forward pecking order at the Swans, playing only four games this year. He turns 32 in September and may need to explore the ruck market.
AFL SALARY CAP
2017: $13.5 million
2018: $13.7 million
2019: $13.9 million
2020: $14.2 million**
2021: $13.2 million^
2022: $14.8 million
* All figures include additional service agreements
** Before significant player pay cuts
^ After an agreed nine per cent reduction from $14.5 million
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