Collingwood defender Billy Frampton has had his suspension for rough conduct reduced to a fine by the AFL tribunal, allowing him to play against Carlton.

Initially sanctioned for a heavy tackle on North Melbourne's Matt Whitlock, Frampton argued the impact was 'low' and successfully contested the charge.The tribunal found the tackle to be careless but determined the force was low due to Whitlock's body position upon contact.

Frampton emphasized he had no other option but to lunge at Whitlock from behind, while the AFL contended the momentum increased after Whitlock lost control.The decision comes after Frampton was previously cleared of a similar incident involving Brody Mihocek.

Other players like Angus Clarke and Matthew Roberts await tribunal rulings on their umpire contact charges, with Essendon facing potential fines for repeated offences.The ruling highlights the nuanced assessment of tackles in AFL match reviews.