Hawthorn has unveiled its Opening Round team to take on Sydney this Friday night at the SCG.

As announced on Wednesday, defensive duo Tom Barrass and Josh Battle will make their Hawthorn debuts in the first game of the season following impressive pre-season campaigns.

Hawthorn Executive General Manager of Football Rob McCartney said the pair added a new dimension to the Hawks' backline.

“We identified a need for key backs in our list build a number of years ago and obviously this last off-season, we’ve been able to execute a strategy that’s brought both Tom and Josh to our club,” McCartney said.

“In the pre-season, we’ve seen them build their synergy with our back six and that will only grow over the coming years at the club. 

“What we can’t underestimate too is that both of them are outstanding men who bring an extra layer of depth and character to our group.

“We’re really excited by what they’re about to do in the brown and gold.”

JOIN THE HAWKS IN 2025! CLICK HERE TO VIEW OUR POPULAR MEMBERSHIP OPTIONS

Friday night's match will see Captain James Sicily lead the team in his third year as skipper, while 2024 All Australian Dylan Moore takes the reins as sole Vice-Captain.

Notably, Senior Coach Sam Mitchell is set to reach a combined 400-game milestone for playing and coaching (329 games as a player, 70 games as a coach) on Friday night.

Hawks challenged to beat the best, dasher ruled out

Overall, McCartney said the Hawks were ready for the challenge of taking on the Swans.

"If the challenge of selection is anything to go by, we're going to have a strong team running out on Friday night," he said.

"We're really confident in our pre-season and we hope it will give us the best chance to start the season in a positive fashion."

OPENING ROUND TEAM
Sydney v Hawthorn
Friday 7 March
7.40pm AEDT, SCG

B: Tom Barrass, Blake Hardwick, Jack Scrimshaw
HB: Josh Weddle, Jarman Impey, Josh Battle
C: James Sicily, Jai Newcombe, Massimo D'Ambrosio
HF: Conor Nash, Harry Morrison, Nick Watson
F: Jack Ginnivan, Mabior Chol, Will Day
R: Lloyd Meek, James Worpel, Dylan Moore

INT: Finn Maginness, Connor Macdonald, Sam Frost, Cam Mackenzie, Karl Amon

EMER: Jack Gunston, Josh Ward, William McCabe