Premiership forward Jack Gunston has been named to make his return for Hawthorn ahead of its match against North Melbourne on Saturday.

Gunston is set to make the trip to the Tasmania after missing the past two games following the sudden passing of his father Ray.

The 220-game veteran is averaging better than a goal per game from 11 outings this year, with 15 majors to date.

Head of Football Rob McCartney said the addition of the experienced Gunston will help balance the young Hawks.

“It’s been an incredibly difficult few weeks for Jack and his family, and we are thrilled to have him back,” McCartney said.

“His inclusion really bolsters our forward line, in both the leadership he provides and his ability to play a valuable role.

Electric defender Changkuoth Jiath will miss the clash after suffering a knee injury in the Round 18 win over West Coast.

“It’s unfortunate Changkuoth has been struck down by injury after some strong performances in recent weeks,” McCartney said.

“Following the game against West Coast, he notified our medical team of some soreness in his knee.

“Scans have indicated he’s expected to miss at least one game with minor bone bruising.”

The Hawks are chasing their third consecutive win on Saturday, which would be a first this season.

After making Launceston a second home since 2001, Hawthorn is set to play for premiership points at Blunstone Arena for the first time in club history.

ROUND 19 TEAM
North Melbourne v Hawthorn
Saturday 23 July
Blundstone Arena, 1.45pm

B: Jack Scrimshaw, James Blanck, Jarman Impey
HB: James Sicily, Blake Hardwick, Denver Grainger-Barras
C: Will Day, Tom Mitchell, Josh Ward
HF: Ben McEvoy, Connor Macdonald, Luke Breust 
F: Jack Gunston, Mitch Lewis, Dylan Moore
R: Ned Reeves, Jai Newcombe, Jaeger O'Meara
INT: Conor Nash, Finn Maginness, Josh Morris, Harry Morrison

Emer: Kyle Hartigan, Jacob Koschitzke, Liam Shiels, Tom Phillips

In: Jack Gunston
Out: Changkuoth Jiath (knee)