The AFL are set to scrap the contentious medical sub rule for 2023, instead introducing a tactical substitute, per reports from AFL Media.
The medical sub was introduced prior to the 2021 season, allowing clubs to substitute a player should they be deemed "medically unfit". The rule came into place following the AFL ruling that any player who suffered a concussion must remain on the sidelines for 12 days.
Reports suggest that the new substitution rule will look similar to the green vest setup that was in place from 2011-2015, which saw three players on the bench with a substitute that was able to be subbed into the match at any time.
In 2023 however, it is expected that four players will remain on the interchange bench with an additional tactical substitution available for teams to use throughout the game.
Clubs were reportedly told about the change prior to Monday's draft, though the league won't ratify the decision until the AFL Commission meets again in December.
The medical substitution rule in 2022 had plenty of detractors, with some pundits believing clubs were exploiting the rule, while some were displeased with debutants being given the role ahead of their first game.
