THE AFL has all but ruled out reducing the interchange cap next season, but will continue to closely analyse data related to rotations. 

It comes as League football boss Steve Hocking and his game analysis team prepare to make their final recommendations to the AFL Commission on rule changes for 2019. 

A briefing of radio broadcasters – including Tim Lane, Garry Lyon, David Parkin and Kevin Bartlett – was told on Tuesday any changes for the 2019 season would be confirmed by October at the latest. 

The gathering was assured there would be no surprises through the JLT Community Series or late decisions on rules for next year.  

Those at the briefing were left with the strong impression starting positions – the much talked-about 6-6-6 formation – and double-length goal squares would likely be the only major changes made for next season.  

However, any changes will only come into force if ratified by the AFL Commission. 

The code's governing body has set a high bar for changes in the past, including most recently deciding against scrapping the bounce.  

Tuesday's presentation included comprehensive analysis from Steve Hocking's recently formed game analysis team.  

The interchange cap, which is expected to remain at 90 rotations next season, could be further reduced if supported by additional evidence in coming years. 

The AFL has been briefing key stakeholders as part of a campaign to bring the broader community along with its plans to modernise the look of the game. 

Television producers and past players are among other groups to have received briefings. 

It follows significant fan feedback about congestion and defensive tactics disrupting the iconic free flowing style of Australian football.  

It remains to be seen how any changes made at AFL level would flow down to grass roots competitions.