The AFL has announced the 2020 season will be reduced to 17 rounds before a traditional final series.

Round 1 is still scheduled to begin on Thursday night, with the reduction in rounds set to provide flexibility as to when matches are played across the duration of 2020.

The Saints take on North Melbourne on Sunday at Marvel Stadium, with a final decision on whether the season kicks off as planned likely to be made on Tuesday.

It is also remains unclear as to the exact make-up of the 17-round fixture with the AFL announcing that the first four rounds will remain as is regardless of when they are played.

The subsequent rounds and the exact timeframe of all games is still unclear but there is a commitment to complete a season within 2020.

These measures come in response to the unprecedented action recommended by government authorities to slow the spread of COVID-19.

The Club will continue to provide updates as soon as possible including vital member information.