AFL runners face new rules on what they can say and where they can be after a series of unfortunate incidents prompted the league to crackdown.
Runners must be off the ground for centre bounces, steer clear of all stoppages and be out of, or leaving, the 50-metre arc for any stoppages inside the forward zones.
Additionally, the AFL will ask runners not to "instruct, direct or coach players on in-play situations".
The changes should avoid a repeat of unsavoury clashes that have seen runners interfere with play several times this season.
Most notably, Geelong runner Nigel Lappin had a run-in with Carlton's Mitch Robinson in the dying moments of their tight round 12 match, while in round nine Fremantle runner Shaun Tinsley was penalised twice for being too close to play.
Lappin was handed a suspended $2000 while Tinsley later apologised, declaring he'd "had a bad day".
AFL football operations boss Mark Evans said after consulting with clubs and runners, they identified the key issue to be runners working in congested areas.
The league has baulked at reintroducing a second runner, which Melbourne coach Paul Roos said would benefit struggling clubs.
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