AFL Tribunal Turmoil Ahead as Blues Join Growing List of Clubs Contesting Suspensions

This week, the AFL tribunal is set to be quite active as three clubs have chosen to contest suspensions issued to players during round seven.

Carlton has joined the ranks of those appealing to the independent tribunal following charges brought forth by the match review officer.

Blues midfielder Adam Cerra has received a one-match suspension for striking Geelong’s Jack Bowes on Sunday.

The incident occurred during Carlton’s impressive upset victory over the Cats, where Cerra struck Bowes.

The match review officer characterised the incident as intentional, low impact, and involving high contact.

At the tribunal hearing, the Blues will argue that Cerra’s strike either connected below the neck or was careless rather than intentional.

If the terminology is downgraded, it could result in the penalty being reduced to merely a fine.

Currently, Cerra’s suspension rules him out of Saturday’s matchup against Adelaide.

Speculation had arisen about the Blues potentially accepting the ban, especially after Cerra sustained an injury during Sunday’s match; however, it appears he’ll be fit to play if selected this week.

In addition to Cerra, North Melbourne’s Paul Curtis is also appearing at the tribunal, facing a three-match suspension due to a dangerous tackle.

Meanwhile, the Crows are contesting a one-match suspension imposed on Mitch Hinge for striking Fremantle’s Andrew Brayshaw over the weekend.

For Cerra, Carlton’s recent history at the tribunal serves as a significant advantage in his bid to play.

In previous years, the Blues have successfully appealed bans for Nic Newman, Harry McKay, Cerra, Jack Martin, Jordan Boyd, and Patrick Cripps.

Notably, Cripps’ successful appeal in 2022 allowed the star midfielder to remain eligible for that year’s Brownlow Medal, which he went on to win.

The AFL has yet to announce whether all three cases will be heard on Tuesday evening.