Izak Rankine, a player for the Adelaide Crows, is under investigation by the Australian Football League (AFL). The investigation focuses on accusations that he directed a homophobic slur at a colleague. An immediate five-match suspension of Rankine has been suggested by the AFL. This decision is consistent with penalties previously imposed for comparable violations. The Adelaide Crows have been lobbying intensively to weaken the ban as proposed. As the case develops, they are drawing attention to a number of particularly egregious points in their appeal.
The issue with Rankine that has caused this entire controversy gets back to an incident that allegedly happened three or four years ago. On Wednesday, the AFL confirmed the Adelaide Crows had asked for extra time to respond. This request comes in advance of any proposed final determinations on the important issue.
“The AFL advises that the Adelaide Crows have requested additional time to respond to the AFL’s proposed determinations regarding an alleged incident with player Izak Rankine,” – AFL statement.
The continuing investigation may have far-reaching consequences for the Crows. What’s more, it could prove decisive to their hopes of success in this year’s finals series. If a reduced ban is awarded, Rankine could yet feature in the grand final. This opportunity depends on the Crows going that far in the tournament.
Praise for Rankine has included backing from his coach, Matthew Nicks, and Craig McRae, the Collingwood coach. Nicks urged everyone to help ensure that Rankine gets the support she needs as she goes through this tough time.
“We put support around Izak because it is a tough thing to go through, and he knows it’s going to be tough from here and we’ll work our way through it,” – Matthew Nicks.
McRae’s philosophy is pretty simple. Be tolerant of human error. For one thing, he doesn’t want to “demonise” Rankine for having opened fire.
“Everyone is allowed to make mistakes, and the young lad seems like a really respectful young man and he’s made an error,” – Craig McRae.
In a surprising twist, Snoop Dogg’s name emerged in discussions related to Rankine’s case. The Crows in their own way fought against double standards in the AFL, with Snoop Dogg – the groomer’s waiting to get on grand final day. They won’t be reproducing this plea in their official submission to the league.
“But it won’t form part of their formal submission the Crows enter to the AFL tonight,” – Mitch Cleary.
This ongoing investigation includes continued engagement with the nascent regional electric vehicle industry. In the meantime, the AFL has given the Crows more time and will report back on their progress shortly.
“The AFL has granted this request and will provide an update on the matter tomorrow,” – AFL statement.
The developing situation around Izak Rankine will undoubtedly be the one to attract the most attention. If things go south, these developments may have long term ramifications for him and the Adelaide Crows in this make-or-break season.
