MELBOURNE will return to the Northern Territory in 2022, with the AFL confirming a game to take place in the Red Centre.

The Demons will travel to Alice Springs and host the much-loved ‘Heart of the Nation’ match at TIO Traeger Park, following an unfortunate year of no AFL footy in the Territory.

Details around the match, including the opponent and scheduled round, will be announced in the coming days.

Melbourne CEO Gary Pert said the club was delighted to be returning to the region following a COVID-impacted season.

“The Northern Territory is an incredibly special place, and we are really looking forward to getting back there to play football again in 2022,” he said.

“Our players, coaches and staff have built a close relationship with the NT over the past decade and continue to focus on giving back to the community and ensuring our partnership is meaningful and impactful.

“TIO Traeger Park has become like a second home for us, and it’s always fantastic to be able to be able to connect with the local community and bring the AFL to their doorstep.”

The game will be one of three matches to be played in the Territory during the 2022 AFL season, thanks to the Northern Territory government’s partnership with the AFL. Gold Coast SUNS will host the other two clashes at TIO Stadium in Darwin.