The decision on the two-match ban for Carlton captain Patrick Cripps was overturned last night, and the AFL has decided not to appeal the decision.
"The AFL acknowledges and accepts the decision of the AFL Appeals Board in overturning the Tribunalโs decision to suspend Patrick Cripps of the Carlton Football Club," a league statement reads.
The Appeal Board Chairman commented last night that the case involved complexities, and the AFL will closely review the Appeal Boardโs detailed reasons for the decision that will be received in due course.
These 'complexities' explain the length of time it took for the board to decide.
However, the AFL have acknowledged that they will continue to work through these decisions as they put the health and safety of all players first, while continuing to try and maintain consistency and fairness.
"It was far too early to say whether the decision would prompt any changes in the AFLโs regulations or Tribunal procedures, but the AFL would not shy away from taking such action if it was needed," Executive General Manager of Football, Andrew Dillon, said.
โThe health and safety of our players is of paramount importance to the AFL and we will continue to evaluate and, where necessary, act to prioritise that objective in relation to the occurrence of concussion and other injuries in the playing of our game."
All eyes will be on the Tribunal when making decisions in the future, and if they decide to allow this decision to be a precedent for future controversial incidents.
