The AFL will investigate cutting the length of matches in a bid to keep the game attractive and protect players from burnout.

Carlton coach Mick Malthouse is keen to see games cut to around 90 minutes of playing time, instead of the usual 120-125 minutes.

AFL chief executive Gill McLachlan says 90 minutes is too short, but he confirmed the league have been looking into the issue to find a middle ground.

“When you have 36-37 minute quarters, I think we agree with Mick that that is too long,” McLachlan said during his visit to Perth on Wednesday.

“It’s something that’s been looked at this year.

“I think there has been a consistent message now from the players that they are almost at their limits.

“This is one of the most taxing and physical games in the world and our guys are incredible athletes.

“I think they are close to their limits and we’ve heard that message.

“But as far as 60, 80, 90 minutes, that’s a bit short.”

Malthouse, who is entering his 31st year as a senior coach, suggested the game could save time by cutting the half-time break from 20 to 15 minutes.

He also said a large portion of the time-on, such as when the ball goes out of bounds, is irrelevant and can also be slashed.

Meanwhile, McLachlan says the AFL still hasn’t received any information linking any of its players to the drug allegations involving Karmichael Hunt and a number of NRL players.

Hunt, the former Gold Coast Suns player now with Super Rugby outfit Queensland Reds, is scheduled to appear in court on March 5 after being charged with supplying cocaine.

Five Gold Coast Titans players have also been caught up in the scandal, and there’s growing fears AFL players could also be dragged into the saga.

“I don’t have any information at the moment. We may in the coming days. At the moment, it’s a watching brief,” McLachlan said.

“There are no guarantees.

“There will be mistakes. There’s no disputing that. There will be issues from time to time. I say that in a broad sense.

“But I have confidence broadly in the culture of that footy club and of our players generally.”

McLachlan also confirmed the AFL will introduce goal-line technology for the stadiums in Perth and Adelaide, bringing it up to standard with the grounds in Melbourne.