AFL legend Kane Cornes has called on the league to overhaul its rookie draft rules following Collingwood’s controversial maneuver involving senior players Oleg Markov and Ash Johnson. Cornes voiced his frustration after the club delisted both players with a commitment to re-sign them through the rookie draft, a move he considers an exploitation of the current system.
Cornes expressed his disapproval on SEN radio, arguing that clubs are misusing the rookie list, intended for developing fresh talent, by filling it with seasoned players. “The AFL’s rookie list rules are a disgrace,” Cornes asserted. He argued that allowing a player like Markov, aged 28 with experience across multiple clubs, to return via the rookie list defies the purpose of the draft. For years, Cornes has voiced his belief that the league should reserve rookie spots exclusively for emerging players who need an entry point into professional football.
Reflecting on Collingwood’s strategy, Cornes suggested it’s not an isolated case but part of a wider trend where clubs bypass standard roster rules. “This isn’t just about Collingwood. Many clubs will continue to take advantage of this loophole unless the AFL steps in,” he said. Cornes believes that without reform, the system will remain vulnerable to manipulation, with experienced players displacing genuine rookies in the draft.
Despite their delisting, both Markov and Johnson remain contracted with Collingwood for the 2025 season. Markov joined Collingwood as a rookie in 2023 through the Supplementary Selection Period (SSP), playing a part in the team’s recent premiership win. Johnson, initially drafted in 2021, only appeared in three games last season. According to Collingwood’s list manager, Justin Leppitsch, the club’s decision reflects a strategic approach but intends to bring both players back onto the list through the upcoming rookie draft.
In other news, Collingwood announced one-year contract extensions for four players—Charlie Dean, Ned Long, Reef McInnes, and Lachie Sullivan—solidifying their roles for the 2025 season. The club commended each for their resilience and commitment, particularly Dean and McInnes, who overcame injury setbacks. These moves highlight Collingwood’s investment in balancing emerging talents with seasoned experience as they head into the next season.
Kane Cornes’ call for reform underscores a growing concern within the AFL community. As more clubs navigate these loopholes, voices like Cornes’ continue to push for a system that prioritizes fairness and opportunities for young athletes.