Jack Duke will be free to play in Beaufort's elimination encounter against Hepburn on Sunday, but will do so knowing the pin could be pulled on his finals series at any time.
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A Central Highlands Football League investigation is currently underway into an incident involving the star Crows winger, stemming from the round 16 senior clash against Clunes.
Duke is seen in vision to come into contact with Magpies youngster Luke Madden late in the team's win over the Magpies, which have called for the league to probe the matter.
CHFL administrator Diane Ryan said the investigating officer has 21 working days from the time of the appointment - Thursday, August 11 - to return a recommendation to the league.
She said this would not occur before the weekend’s game against the Burras.
And under a timeframe of 21 working days, Duke could potentially be free to play right through the 2016 finals series before the matter reaches tribunal.
He featured in Beaufort’s round 17 win over Learmonth on Saturday, kicking a goal in the 93-point triumph.
That result saw the Crows finish the home and away season in sixth position to set up an elimination final rematch against Hepburn this Sunday at Waubra.
The Burras beat the Crows in the finals last year, but lost the teams’ encounter in round 12 this year.
The outcome of the investigation could also have repercussions for the Geoff Taylor Medal, which will be awarded at the league presentation evening next Monday night.
After a standout season, Duke is regarded as one of the leading fancies to take out the best and fairest award.
Should Duke be called to front the tribunal, and then be found guilty of an offence, he would be ruled ineligible for the medal.
