Australian rules football season to start as scheduled this week despite coronavirus outbreak
Most sporting events around the globe have been postponed or called off
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.The Australian rules football season will commence on Thursday despite the coronavirus outbreak.
The AFL has announced the opening fixture between Richmond and Carlton at the MCG will take place behind closed doors on Thursday evening.
It has also been confirmed that quarter length will be reduced to 16 minutes in the coming campaign, while the season had already been trimmed to 17 rounds from 22.
AFL chief executive Gillon McLachlan said the league had come to its decision after “wide consultation” with Australia’s chief medical officer and government representatives.
He told a press conference: “We embark on this journey with clear instruction from the government that all industry and all parts of society need to keep moving forward and we simply cannot stand still.
“We must go forward day by day listening to the advice and continue to make the best decisions for our industry while balancing well-being, welfare, leadership, and economic and social impacts.
“We don’t know how many games we will get into this 153-game journey before we have to pause.
“But what I do know today is I feel comfortable with the government and medical advice, and the support of our presidents, CEOs, players and coaches.”
PA
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments