The AFL wants a formal explanation from Fremantle over Aaron Sandilands’ late inclusion for their win on Saturday over Richmond.

Sandilands, who was named originally as an emergency, played his first game since round 11 when he came into the side for fellow ruckman Jonathon Griffin.

The decision to play Sandilands prompted some sharp words from rival coaches Damien Hardwick and Ross Lyon in their post-game media conferences.

Hardwick questioned whether the decision to play Sandilands was in the spirit of the game.

When told of the Richmond coach’s comments, Lyon was angry.

He said Griffin suffered a groin injury during the warm-up and said it was no ruse.

“I’m on record here, this is bona fide and legitimate,” Lyon said.

“And if anyone wants (to make) accusations outside of that they’re well and truly out of line and want to be really careful.”

The league would probably fine Fremantle if it is unsatisfied with the Docker’s explanation.

Sandilands played a key role in the 22-point win, which kept Fremantle in the top-eight hunt and ended Richmond’s slim finals chances.