AFL 2024: Patrick Cripps calls for Brownlow eligibility rule review

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AFL 2024: Patrick Cripps calls for Brownlow eligibility rule review

Patrick Cripps says he would be disappointed to see Isaac Heeney ruled ineligible for the Brownlow Medal as he called for a review of the award’s criteria.

Cripps, who is considered one of Heeney’s main challengers for the game’s most prestigious gong, said the Swans superstar played “the right way” and did not deserve to miss out on the medal if he was suspended for striking St Kilda’s Jimmy Webster.

Heeney was due to challenge his one-match ban on Tuesday night after he attempted to push off Webster to lead for the ball but hit the Saints defender high during the final term of the Swans’ loss on Sunday.

If his ban was upheld, Heeney on Brownlow Medal night could become the third player to top the count but not claim the medal due to a suspension during the season.

Camera IconSydney and Carlton stars Isaac Heeney (top) and Patrick Cripps are considered among the frontrunners for the 2023 Brownlow Medal. Phil Hillyard Credit: News Corp Australia

Corey McKernan (1996) and Chris Grant (1997) topped the count in successive years but were ineligible due to one-game suspensions, while Jobe Watson was stripped of his 2012 medal years later amid the Essendon supplements saga.

“It’s a tough question, it’s obviously a rule that’s been around since the start. I feel like with how not the rules have changed, but how we’re protecting the head and little incidents, I feel like it’s definitely a thing that needs to be reviewed at the end of the year,” Cripps said.

“You’d hate to see someone like Isaac, if he did win (the count), miss out on the chance.

“He’s had a great year, he’s a great player and I feel like he plays the game the right way … that’s all I’d say about that.”

Cripps’ 2022 Brownlow came only after a marathon tribunal hearing in which he was eventually exonerated after being handed a suspension for a high bump that concussed Brisbane’s Callum Ah Chee.

“It’s out of your control in a way,” he said when asked about the emotions of the hearing.

“You’ve obviously got to say your part, but I’m sure they’ll have a case to present, and I wish (Heeney) all the best with it.”

Melbourne captain Max Gawn was happy to see eligibility rules remain the same and said it would add suspense on the night if Heeney was ineligible.

“I think I’m a bit of a traditionalist with a lot of things – I like the idea of the best and fairest missing the Brownlow,” he said.

“That’s over 25 years ago (McKernan and Grant winning the count), so it doesn’t happen that often. I mean it will make an interesting Brownlow count.

“I do love Brownlow night, so if Heeney is up there winning, the room will be talking.”

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