Richmond and Carlton Adjust to New AFL Round 1 Schedule

Richmond will not be the opening team for the AFL season at the MCG against Carlton for the first time since 2008. The league has chosen to feature two interstate matches in Round 1, with Sydney facing Geelong and Fremantle playing the Western Bulldogs.

The traditional match at the MCG has been rescheduled to Saturday afternoon at 12:35pm (AEST) due to the 150th Anniversary Test between Australia and England. This will mark the first Saturday afternoon game between Richmond and Carlton since Round 21, 2013.

Tigers chief executive Shane Dunne expressed disappointment over the change but acknowledged it was due to the MCG's availability, indicating it is a temporary adjustment. Carlton also recognized the significance of the fixture, noting its historical importance and the large crowds it typically attracts.