Richmond have temporarily shut down its VFL program due to coronavirus fears, according to AFL Media.
With VFL-listed players playing alongside contracted AFL players, the Tigers are doing all they can to control their environment and limit the risk of any of its players contracting COVID-19.
The decision puts the new VFL season in doubt, which is scheduled to start on April 3.
The report also states clubs are now urging any players who are unwell to stay away from main training groups as clubs battle with the unprecedented situation of the current global pandemic.
The league announced on Friday it’s set to proceed with round one as scheduled, albeit with no fans in line with government restrictions banning all mass gathers of over 500.
Richmond CEO Brendon Gale told SEN on Saturday the club would lose over $1m for every usually high-drawing marquee match at the MCG played behind closed doors.
The Tigers had been due to unfurl their 2019 premiership flag on Thursday night against Carlton but have put that off until fans are allowed back in stadiums.