Carlton is hoping a return to playing in the season opener against Richmond will draw a blockbuster crowd to the MCG. 

The two sides last met in Round 1 back in 2013, drawing a crowd of 80,971 – a far cry from the 62,037 people who turned up to watch the teams play in their sole encounter this season. 

However, next year could mark a break with tradition in the division of gate takings, with Carlton unlikely to share the gate with the Tigers. 

It comes on the back of Richmond opting not to share the gate takings with Carlton this year. 

Carlton CEO Steven Trigg says he’s certain Blues supporters wouldn’t want it any other way. 

“If we’re going to be part of a gate-share agreement, then we should share it regardless of how many times we play Richmond in a given year,” Trigg said. 

“It wasn’t done last year and may not be this year either, although the concept of promoting both fixtures in 2015 is sensible and something we still would commit to. 

“We would be very happy to re-engage with Richmond on a gate-share basis for 2016 and beyond."

Richmond will host Carlton in a return clash at the MCG on Friday 10 July. 

Trigg says the Blues will work with the Tigers to help promote the match. 

“What we’re after is an outcome that’s fair for both clubs, but the ultimate goal is to get as many people along to both games as possible,” Trigg said. 

“It’s always a massive game when Carlton and Richmond play each other, so we would like to work with the Tigers to make both matches terrific football experiences."