Cyclone fears: Pressure grows on AFL to postpone season opener

The AFL is poised to make definitive call on Thursday night’s season opener in Brisbane, after the Queensland government ordered residents to prepare and remain vigilant for Cyclone Alfred.

Queensland Premier David Crisafulli held a press conference on Tuesday afternoon, detailing the crisis plans he has for his state ahead of wild and wet weather.

“This is something we need to take seriously,” Crisafulli said.

“We are prepared. We are asking all Queenslanders to do the same.”

Crisafulli said there were three stages expected of the weather event: big surf, damaging winds, and significant rain, including flooding and dangerous storms.

Loading

His comments add more pressure on the AFL to postpone the season opener, when the Lions had planned to unfurl their premiership flag ahead of their clash against Geelong. The AFL will release its final decision on whether the game goes ahead late on Tuesday.

On Tuesday morning, Lions coach Chris Fagan called for the game to be postponed.

“It’s just a game of football. The safety of family, friends, staff and fans is the priority, so that’s why common sense has to prevail,” Fagan said.