The AFL season has been postponed as the country locks down amid the coronavirus crisis.

But the final game of the opening round - between West Coast and Melbourne in Perth later on Sunday - will commence as planned.

After a day of drastic developments, it emerged that the 2020 AFL season won't resume any earlier than the end of May.

Furthermore, the AFLW season has been cancelled with four teams remaining in the premiership race. No premiership will be awarded.

The AFL held an urgent teleconference with club chief executives on Sunday afternoon with this year's season on the verge of being shut down.