Written by Rhea Alison, Sports reporter, covering international sports since 2020

North Melbourne are set to meet AFL football boss Greg Swann after forward Paul Curtis received a three-game suspension that the club believes was unfair following a tackle that concussed West Coast’s Hamish Davis. The Kangaroos chose not to challenge the tribunal ruling, but internal frustration has continued to grow within the club.

The decision sparked strong reactions from teammates, with Jye Simpkin publicly criticising the outcome on social media before later deleting his posts after discussions with club and AFL officials. North football boss Todd Viney said Simpkin will be given a chance to directly raise concerns with the league.

Coach Alastair Clarkson said Curtis has accepted the ban and remains focused on returning strongly, while also noting that public criticism must stay within proper channels. The club now turns its attention to clarifying the ruling with the AFL while preparing for upcoming matches against Richmond, Essendon and Port Adelaide.