The All Australian squad will be announced next week in a strange and surprising move as the AFL battles to squeeze in a slot due to the introduction of Wildcard Round.
It is customary for the All Australian squad, which this year will be 46 players, to be revealed ahead of the final team, thus creating intrigue and engagement among footy fans and heightening anticipation ahead of the AFL awards night.
The introduction of Wildcard Round this year in a weekend slot which was last week footy free ahead of the bye has prompted the AFL to hold the awards night on Tuesday August 25.
The AFL revealed on Wednesday that the All Australian squad would therefore drop next week, with the panel to then meet again after the home and away season is concluded to settle on a final 23.
Several storylines are already beginning to circulate about the All Australian side.
Max Gawn will be vying to become the first player in history to be named in nine All Australian sides.
Murphy Reid will be looking to cap a glittering second season with an All Australian blazer.
The captain of the team will also be an interesting watch with some criticism coming in recent times for some questionable choices as captain.
