The AFL is yet to rule out a return to footy as soon as June 11 with a potential blockbuster clash between Melbourne and Collingwood, reports The Herald Sun.
A June 11 match-up between the two traditional rivals would double as a FightMND fundraiser, with a Thursday night restart falling just three days after the date of the traditional Queen's Birthday fixture.
Plans for the sixth 'Big Freeze at the 'G' fundraiser were shelved when the coronavirus pandemic hit, but Neale Daniher, Channel 7 and the FightMND foundation have re-engaged in discussions based around ensuring the event goes ahead.
"They have got a plan in place to do something spectacular," Eddie McGuire said on Wednesday.
โThat might be the first game, Collingwood and Melbourne, and if it is, obviously weโll do something big for the Neale Daniher (charity).โ
But a marquee fixture between Richmond and Collingwood, who were set to lock horns in Round 2 before the AFL's postponement, is also on the cards, according to The Herald Sun.
As Australian states and territories ease lockdown restrictions, there are increasing whispers the game's return could be sooner than the earmarked June 18 date.
If the Victorian government eases restrictions today, a return to training for all clubs will be possible, even if players must remain in groups of 10.
Coaches are adamant players need a minimum of three weeks of intensive training to be capable of returning to the game at a high level.
A June 11 return would mean the AFL could complete 16 rounds by the end of September, with the finals series to be played in October.
The situation will remain uncertain until further announcements from state governments and the AFL are made, although the NRL's May 28 restart should provide a relevant case study for the AFL to learn from.
Clubs have now recalled players from interstate as they prepare for an imminent return to training.
