The AFL will be trialling four field umpires in the NAB challenge. Just what we need, one extra person on the field. If the increase in the decision making fraternity continues, the umpires will eventually outnumber the players.

AFL umpires coach, Hayden Kennedy says the fourth umpire will allow another umpire closer to the play to get a different angle. I thought that was why the third umpire was introduced!

I have said before that the AFL needs to stop playing around with the make up of the game. Although this is just a small alteration, I query whether it is really necessary. I haven’t heard the fans demanding more officials on the field to adjudicate decisions nor has the media suggested it.

Given the worrying downturn in crowds during the 2014 AFL season, I am sure there are other, far more important issues that require time and thought by the AFL for 2015 and beyond.

Gillon McLachlan would be wise to adopt a ‘hasten slowly’ stance on any changes to the game.