ESSENDON players facing infraction notices moved a step closer to learning their fate after the AFL Anti-Doping Tribunal resumed on Monday to hear closing submissions.
The Australian Sports Anti-Doping Authority, which lodged its written closing submissions last week, officially closed its case on Monday.
The Tribunal will resume on Tuesday to hear the closing submissions of the 34 past and present Essendon players handed infraction notices, and the AFL.
All oral closing submissions are due to be heard by Wednesday, at which point the Tribunal will adjourn to consider its decision.
There is no timetable for the Tribunal to make its ruling, meaning the players are likely to be left in the dark during the NAB Challenge, which they have not sought clearance to play in.
Should any of the 34 current and former Essendon players or the former Essendon employee facing infraction notices be found to have breached the AFL Anti-Doping Code, a hearing would follow to set a sanction.
The prospect of further legal challenges following a finding makes it possible for the players to remain in limbo going into the 2015 season, which launches on April 2.
David Grace QC has represented 32 current and former players, with Neil Clelland QC representing two former Essendon players separately.
ASADA has been represented by Malcolm Holmes QC.
The hearing is being held behind closed doors at the Victorian County Court after a ruling by Tribunal chairman David Jones.
