AFL CEO Gillon McLachlan has shut the gate on a six-player interchange this season and shorter quarters beyond 2020.
The six-man bench has been heavily pushed by AFL clubs to give more players game time with the lack of state league action, but that isn't yet on the cards for the AFL.
“Not at the moment. We’re staying flexible, if we need to we’re going to be able to be agile,” McLachlan told 3AW.
“If we need to compress games at the end of the year (we might need it), but at the moment (with) the reduced quarters, we don’t need (extended interchange benches).”
With shorter quarters being the big talking point recently and many displeased with the idea of the notion moving forward beyond 2020, McLachlan confirmed the AFL isn't planning to play shorter quarters after the 2020 season.
“I don’t think so. We’re looking at things all the time, but the 20 minutes to 16 is for the flexibility we need to get through this year,” he said.
“Our broadcasters, our supporters, our clubs understand, but it’s not something we’re contemplating for next year.”