Leading concussion expert backs key change to AFL policy; Hardwick takes a swipe at league HQ

“It is important that we continue to make it easier for the doctors and clubs to manage any possible head impact.

“In the past 10 years, we have made more than 30 changes to our rules to protect the brain health of our players, and this change only further strengthens our commitment to player health and safety.”

‘They have one job, the AFL – let’s get it sorted out’

AAP

Gold Coast coach Damien Hardwick took a swipe at the AFL after his side’s loss to Sydney on Friday night, saying the structure pre-season games needs more work.

There has been plenty of talk about whether the pre-season schedule has contributed to more injuries than usual.

Some of the league’s biggest names have succumbed to injury before the season has even started, with Swans star Errol Gulden sent to hospital for scans on his ankle.

There was speculation the dual All-Australian suffered a syndesmosis injury, potentially sidelining him for several weeks. Gulden’s ankle was caught under him and twisted awkwardly when he was tackled early in the game. He was in agony and needed two trainers to help him from the ground.

It was a night of injury carnage, with Suns players Mac Andrew (sternum), Charlie Ballard (ankle), David Swallow (knee) and Lachie Weller (hamstring) also taken out of the game.

Earlier on Friday, Western Bulldogs captain Marcus Bontempelli (calf) and star Port Adelaide midfielder Zack Butters (knee surgery) were confirmed as being out of action for at least six weeks.

“We have to get a bit better and it’s hard, because round zero comes in and then some sides have two weeks off,” Hardwick told Fox Footy after the Sydney game.

“We need to put our heads together and figure out what we can do, and get a little bit tighter.

“Sydney can’t get home tonight [Friday] and they play next Friday – they’re stuck here.

“We just have to get this scheduling better. They have one job, the AFL, let’s get it sorted out.”