ESSENDON players handed infraction notices have closed their case at the AFL Anti-Doping Tribunal and now face a nervous wait as the panel prepares to deliver its ruling.
The case of 34 past and present Bombers players concluded on Tuesday at the Victorian County Court after all parties delivered their oral closing submissions one day ahead of schedule.
The Australian Sports Anti-Doping Authority officially closed its case on Monday, with the players and AFL returning to deliver their closing submissions on Tuesday.
The Tribunal will now consider the evidence and submissions before deciding if there was a breach of the AFL Anti-Doping Code during the Bombers' 2012 supplements program.
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 current and former Essendon players or the former Essendon employee handed 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.
Bombers close their case in battle with ASADA
Players face a nervous wait after delivering oral closing submissions