'Treated like criminals': Reality of Angus Brayshaw's failed insurance bid revealed by former cricketer and uncle James

James Brayshaw has given an insight into the hurt his family has endured in wake of his nephew Angus' failed insurance bid following a career-ending concussion injury.

An independent umpire determined last week that Angus was ineligible for a payout from Zurich Insurance on the basis that he can still complete everyday tasks, despite the former AFL star still suffering symptoms following eight brain bleeds.

The ex-Demons midfielder is slowly coming to terms with the result, but the AFL world is still raising questions and concerns over the handling of his case.

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Alastair Clarkson is among the many key figures in the game that has called for the AFL to reconsider its involvement with Zurich Insurance in wake of the 'horrifying' result.

James has now revealed the extent to which players are monitored during such cases.

"The way those boys have been treated post-career was appalling," he said on Triple M's The Rush Hour with JB and Billy.

"Unmarked cars parked at the end of streets, photographed going for walks, not able to do anything for 18 months without being followed … being treated like criminals.

"I was really pleased to hear Clarkson say that, from someone with his standing in the game. It's not only Angus, of course, it's also Nathan Murphy and Paul Seedsman.

"For the three not to be financially compensated for losing their livelihood for brain trauma caused in the workplace is an absolute disgrace.

"Zurich is coming off a year where their annual profit was in excess of $10 billion so the optics for me are appalling. They had to come to an agreement, even saying, 'We're not going to give you the lot, but we'll give you something'."

James confirmed that Angus is doing "all right" despite the result and remains "very realistic" about what his life looks like going forward.

But what is now a reality for the family is one James hoped would not be the case.

"As I say, I'm strong on this because of the three families, not just my own. I just think it's an appalling result," he continued.

"I can not understand how anyone has judged it how they have. You've had your livelihood ended through no fault of your own … the optics are appalling."

The retired Australian first-class cricketer went on to note that he had heard whispers that Demons players were unsettled by the decision the club's major sponsor had made.

Some on the team are "really uncomfortable" with wearing Zurich's logo on their jersey in wake of the decision, with the insurance organisation a major sponsor for the team.

"I don't blame them (for being uncomfortable)," said James.

"The whole thing has been shabbily handled from the start."

Melbourne captain Max Gawn confirmed the team would not protest their sponsor as the playing group has yet to gather all the answers they need on the case just yet.

Gawn did state that he had discussed that clearly with Angus during the week.

The Demons will host Hawthorn at the MCG on Saturday.