Essendon legend Kevin Sheedy has called on the AFL to investigate kicking the premiership season off with a game on foreign soil.
Sheedy, a key figure in creating blockbuster games like Anzac Day and Dreamtime at the `G, made the comments on the back of Port Adelaide's bold plan to play a game for premiership points in China in 2017.
"I think eventually a round one (game) should be played overseas in the next five years," Sheedy said.
"Then come back, have a week off then move into round two in Australia.
"If we were able to achieve that then I think we've done the right thing."
Before taking up a marketing role with the Bombers, Sheedy worked extensively on developing overseas markets in an ambassadorial post with the AFL.
He visited China on an AFL research trip seven years ago and applauded the Power's plan.
"I think it's a great opportunity for our game," he said.
"I firmly believe that a game in China and games overseas are what our game needs.
"I think now is the time. We're happy with the way that the Gold Coast Suns and GWS Giants are stepping up to the mark and I think the next part of the development in the history of the game is to look overseas."
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