What is the new AFL MRO grading adjustment?

The new AFL MRO grading adjustment allows the Match Review Officer flexibility to impose sanctions lower than three weeks for incidents involving a concussion, moving away from the previous 'three weeks or nothing' rule.

Who is Cooper Hodge and why is his draft situation complex?

Cooper Hodge, son of Luke Hodge, is a prospect eligible for the 2026 AFL draft through Hawthorn's father-son rule and Brisbane's Academy program, creating a complex selection choice for him and the clubs.

What happened in the recent AFL match simulation involving Charlie Comben?

In a match simulation, North Melbourne's Charlie Comben made a dangerous tackle on Melbourne's Brody Mihocek, who subsequently entered concussion protocols, making it the first test case for the new MRO grading amendment.

Home / Sports / MRO's New Rule Tested by Dangerous Tackle

MRO's New Rule Tested by Dangerous Tackle

22 Feb

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Summary

New MRO grading adjustment faces first test with Comben's tackle.
Charlie Comben's tackle on Brody Mihocek triggers concussion protocol.
Luke Hodge's son Cooper faces complex father-son/academy draft decision.

MRO's New Rule Tested by Dangerous Tackle

The AFL's Match Review Officer (MRO) process faces its first significant test with a recent dangerous tackle from North Melbourne defender Charlie Comben on Melbourne's Brody Mihocek. This incident, occurring just 10 minutes into a match simulation, has placed Mihocek into concussion protocols. The situation is pivotal as it will gauge the effectiveness of a new grading amendment set to be implemented for the upcoming 2026 season. This adjustment aims to provide the MRO with greater flexibility, moving away from the previous 'three weeks or nothing' policy for concussion-related incidents. It allows for lesser sanctions if factors beyond the concussion itself suggest a less severe impact.