AFL legends Jimmy Bartel and Matthew Lloyd have raised concerns regarding Carlton’s handling of the Elijah Hollands situation, casting doubt on the appropriateness of the individual leading the investigation.
These remarks came on the same day it was disclosed that Carlton’s chief medical officer, Dr Matt Chamberlain, has taken personal leave and is reportedly weighing up legal options if the inquiry implicates him in any way.
The AFL community was left in disbelief when Hollands managed to participate in an entire match against Collingwood on April 16, despite numerous observers noting odd behaviour from the 24-year-old, who celebrated his birthday on Saturday.
Despite being on the field for approximately 60 per cent of the match, he registered only one disposal in the five-point defeat. Reports emerged that Collingwood players observed him behaving erratically during the game, with some claiming they could detect the smell of alcohol.
Carlton has refuted allegations that Hollands was under the influence of drugs or alcohol, attributing his behaviour to a medical episode. He has since been admitted to hospital.
The AFL has mandated a review into how Carlton allowed Hollands to continue playing amidst his unusual conduct. Additionally, WorkSafe Victoria is investigating the incident.
The club appointed Chris Davies to oversee the review, despite him only having joined Carlton late last year as the general manager of football.
A report was submitted to the AFL on Friday; however, the governing body has since sought clarification from Carlton on several issues.
Bartel has suggested that instead of leading the investigation, Davies himself should be scrutinised.
“My concern is why Chris Davies is at the forefront of this process,” Bartel articulated on Nine’s Footy Classified.
“As head of football, he oversees everything on match day… he’s the CEO for everyone reporting to him, and anyone who would need to be questioned would answer to him.”
Elijah Hollands of the Blues. AFL Photos via Getty Images
“This raises questions about why he’s the one leading the investigation when so many inquiries will need to be directed at him and his match day responsibilities,” he added.
“I’m unsure who else is involved in the investigation, but if it’s solely him, I would prefer to see someone else taking the reins.”
“To ensure thorough scrutiny of his actions, how he managed the situation, and the chain of command, we must examine everything that occurred. We want to prevent this happening again, and having someone who is likely to be questioned also writing the review raises concerns for me.”
In other news, Seven’s Tom Morris reported that Dr Chamberlain has stepped away from his role at Carlton following the incident involving Hollands.
Morris indicated that the doctor is also considering legal action should the investigation implicate him.
Chris Davies (left) during his tenure with Port Adelaide prior to joining Carlton. AFL Photos via Getty Images
Lloyd went a step further, proposing that an external investigation be conducted to ensure impartiality in the process, suggesting that the current setup may inadvertently serve to protect both the AFL and Carlton.
“An independent person should be brought in to lead this review,” Lloyd stated on Footy Classified.
“The reality is honesty is unlikely to emerge from within Carlton; an outsider would provide a clearer perspective on how the situation was managed.”
“I can’t shake the feeling that the outcome may be crafted to suit Carlton and the AFL, creating a result that casts everyone in a better light when, in reality, the player was let down.”
In other news, Hollands’ younger sibling Ollie was withdrawn from the most recent game in Perth; however, the Blues remain optimistic that he will take the field against St Kilda this Saturday night.
Compiled by SportArena.au
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