IF RICHMOND wins this week against Fremantle, its second-round NAB Cup match with Collingwood will probably have to be played on a Thursday night in order to find an available venue.

Melbourne Victory is likely to host the A-League grand final at Telstra Dome and the MCG is unavailable for football until late March due to the strong possibility that Victoria will also host the Sheffield Shield final.

With that soccer grand final staged on Saturday, February 28, and with a NAB Cup match already slated for the Friday night beforehand the AFL is short of a suitable venue.

The Age understands the match will be scheduled on Thursday, February 26.

MICHAEL GLEESON