In what would have been unimaginable 18 months ago, but now barely raises a shoulder shrug, players started hearing of the NSW lockdown during the first quarter of Saturday's round 17.

It places even greater pressure on the league to finish the year.

O and M chairperson David Sinclair was watching his daughter Olivia play for Corowa-Rutherglen in the A grade netball match against Wangaratta Rovers when the news broke.

"We've only just received the news of course, but you would have to think we wouldn't play next week," he suggested with just the one round left.

"We have a board meeting on Monday night, so we'll see where we go from there."

The NSW lockdown is scheduled to end at 12.01am on Sunday, ruling out any play on Saturday.

Until that lockdown is lifted or eased, no play is possible.

However, if and when play's allowed, Cresswell maintains heading straight to finals.

"If we have to play finals as soon as possible, we have to play, that's with or without Melbourne players," he revealed.

"I know that might upset some netball, reserves or thirds teams (as their top five could depend on final round results, unlike O and M seniors), I'm not sure, but I think we need to play on because you never know what's around the corner."

Cresswell's attitude is incredibly unselfish because Rovers without their Melbourne players can't win the flag, despite having the double chance.

He's incredibly close to his players and would naturally love to have the league's Melbourne contingent, which is currently locked out from playing due to COVID.

"If we have another lockdown in (regional) Victoria, or NSW goes longer, it (the season) could be done and dusted," he offered.

IN OTHER NEWS:

The O and M was forced to cancel four rounds, but Saturday's round played without crowds for the first time.

Our journalists work hard to provide local, up-to-date news to the community. This is how you can continue to access our trusted content: