AFL's holding-the-ball rule sparks century-long debate over simplification

Australian football's holding-the-ball rule remains contentious a century after its 1927 introduction, with disputes over "prior opportunity" unchanged. The rule's complexity, increased tackle counts, and modern camera analysis have amplified controversy in recent decades. Removing the prior opportunity clause would simplify umpiring and reduce stoppages, but defenders argue it preserves the game's ball-player ethos.

Summary by Glance · The Age – Sport