Changkuoth Jiath has started his 2022 campaign with a bang, receiving the nod from fans as Hawthorn’s Round 1 MVP following the side's win over North Melbourne.

After being sidelined since Round 17 last year due to a knee injury, Jiath was back to his best and putting smiles on the faces of Hawks fans again on Sunday.

Mitchell: Consistency of effort was telling

The exciting defender was electric from the get-go, halting North Melbourne’s forward entries multiple times with his incredible athleticism and ability to read the play.

His stand-out performance saw him finish with 24 disposals (at 83 per cent efficiency), five marks, nine intercept possessions and three inside 50s.

Hear from Jiath following our Round 1 win.