In the opening round of the AFL season, bans have been placed on three players, all of which are now under appeal by their respective clubs. Richmond’s Tom Lynch faces a one-match suspension for striking Carlton’s Tom de Koning. North Melbourne’s Jackson Archer received a harsher penalty, with a three-match ban for an incident that led to a concussion for Luke Cleary of the Western Bulldogs. Similarly, Hawthorn’s Jack Scrimshaw has been handed a three-match suspension after striking Essendon’s Jordan Ridley.
In contrast, Sydney has opted not to challenge the three-match suspension given to Justin McInerney for his bump on Brisbane’s Brandon Starcevich. This decision reflects a difference in tactic among the clubs regarding the bans imposed during the first round.
Further updates on these appeals are anticipated.