Tanking probe must go beyond Demons, says Ron Barassi

MELBOURNE legend Ron Barassi says the AFL must turn its tanking probe to other clubs if the Demons are found guilty of deliberately underperforming.

Ron Barassi

MELBOURNE legend Ron Barassi says the AFL must turn its tanking investigation to other clubs if the Demons are found guilty of deliberately underperforming.

Up to 20 former and current Melbourne figures continue to be grilled about an alleged plot to lose games in 2009 to ensure the club qualified for a prized priority draft pick.

One of the game's most revered figures, Barassi said the AFL was compelled to act on any incriminating evidence, saying deliberate efforts to restrict teams on-field performance went against "the spirit of the game".

But the man who won 10 premierships as coach and player at Melbourne, North Melbourne and Carlton, said other clubs must come under the same scrutiny if the Dees were sanctioned.

"If it's true, it would be very, very disappointing," Barassi said.

"I'd hate to see it (a penalty) if they have done it (tanked), just provided the AFL does it (investigates) to all clubs which have gone down the same track.

"The AFL just can't have it (tanking) happening, it's a no-no. It goes against all your instincts."

Barassi, 76, said he had no evidence Melbourne set out to lose games but was awaiting the findings of the AFL's investigation, which was triggered by explosive allegations from former Demon Brock McLean in July.

Melbourne faces a heavy fine or loss of draft picks if found guilty, although it is expected the AFL won't conclude its investigation until after this year's national draft, on November 22 on the Gold Coast.

It is believed the AFL, headed by integrity chief Brett Clothier and assistant Abraham Haddad, has stepped up its investigation in recent weeks, re-interviewing some figures, including former coach Dean Bailey and football manager Josh Mahoney.