The move came after a six-week lockdown in Melbourne forced the AFL to shelve the plan to resume the VFL as a seven-team competition on August 1.

"We acknowledge this is very disappointing news for the players, coaches, officials, volunteers and fans of the VFL competition and commend every VFL club who has worked tirelessly to ensure a united approach to the outcome of the 2020 season," the AFL's head of talent and state league Tristan Salter said.

"Following the updated restrictions announced by Victoria state government yesterday, we explored many scenarios as to how we could still proceed with a condensed season in a non-traditional format.

"Ultimately it provided too great a challenge."

A host of former Ovens and Murray players including Sam Murray were poised to play in the VFL this year.

The under-18 competition is also in serious doubt.