The AFL's decision to stage a landmark charity match to raise funds for the national bushfire disaster will deny the region's Collingwood and Richmond fans the opportunity to see up to six star players in action at Wangaratta in March.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Victoria will take on an All-Stars line-up at Marvel Stadium on Friday, February 28, two days before the powerhouses are set to meet in their pre-season fixture at Norm Minns Oval on March 1 in the second weekend of the JLT Community Series.
A maximum of three players per club can be selected for the blockbuster fixture and will be rested from their team's pre-season match that weekend.
ALSO IN SPORT:
Brownlow Medallist and two-time Norm Smith Medal winner Dustin Martin would be a likely Victorian selection, while other Richmond stars include Jack Riewoldt, Tom Lynch and Dylan Grimes.
All Australian ruckman Brodie Grundy, Scott Pendlebury, Jordan De Goey and Steele Sidebottom potentially may not play for the Pies.
Corowa export and Sydney premiership coach John Longmire will take the reins of the All-Stars, while two-time Richmond premiership coach Damien Hardwick will lead Victoria.
The AFL, in association with the 18 clubs and the AFL Players Association, have provided a $2.5 million donation towards disaster relief, with $1.5 million going to grassroots facilities.
It's the first game of its kind since the 2008 Hall of Fame tribute match where Victoria beat the Dream Team by 17 points at the MCG