To make sure you never miss out on your favourite NEW stories, we're happy to send you some reminders

Click 'OK' then 'Allow' to enable notifications

Aussies Are Fuming Birds Of Tokyo Will Play At The AFL Anzac Match

Aussies Are Fuming Birds Of Tokyo Will Play At The AFL Anzac Match

Punters have slammed the AFL for turning a day of solemn reflection into an entertainment spectacle.

Stewart Perrie

Stewart Perrie

There are a few spots on the Aussie calendar that are sacred: Christmas, Australia Day, Queen's Birthday, Anzac Day, Boxing Day and Easter.

We've got tons of stuff that happens on those days and sport is usually on top of people's list of things to either watch or do.

While the country will recognise the sacrifice our diggers made on Anzac Day, there's also a pretty sacred AFL match that's on between Essendon and Collingwood.

Anzac Day is always full of emotion.
PA

But it seems like this year, organisers behind the big match have decided to switch things up a bit by having some entertainment at half time like they do in the Grand Final.

Aussie rock band Birds of Tokyo has been tapped for the big performance but punters aren't happy that the game is being turned into a spectacle.

One person wrote: "ANZAC Day was always about the Nation paying their respects to those that never returned. Now McLachlan wants to turn it into a farce. The 'Last Post' is all l want to hear."

Another added: "On Anzac Day? Isn't that a day for solemn reflection? Hard to see how this can work."

A third said: "This is absolutely disgusting and I hope the RSL comes out and condemns this strongly as should the football public. Reeks of the morons who say we 'celebrate' Anzac day instead of commemorate it. Sickening."

The AFL released a statement saying the band has 'resonated deeply with Australian audiences' and that's why they're the perfect fit for the occasion.

Birds of Tokyo drummer and Collingwood fan Adam Weston said it was a big honour to play on such a big day.

"Australia's biggest sporting stage will no doubt be at capacity to respect our returned and current serving defence personnel and we are pleased to be part of it.

"As a Collingwood member, the annual Anzac Day match at the MCG is always nothing short of breathtaking and I'm sure it will be an experience to remember for the whole band."

The AFL hasn't released a statement about the anger prompted by the band's inclusion in the day, nor have any RSL clubs.

Featured Image Credit: AFL

Topics: SPORT, Entertainment, Australia