Hawthorn will welcome back Captain Ben Stratton ahead of Friday night’s blockbuster clash against Collingwood.
Stratton returns to the line-up following a two-week stint on the sidelines due to suspension.
Young key forward Mitch Lewis has also been recalled to the senior side after some promising form with Box Hill.
Lewis has not featured at AFL level since the Round 11 loss to Brisbane but has shown strong signs in his six appearances this season, hitting the scoreboard in every outing.
GM – Football Graham Wright said Stratton had worked hard throughout the past fortnight.
“We were obviously disappointed to lose Stratts for the past couple of weeks,” Wright said.
“But he has worked really hard on the track to ensure he has a strong return to the field.
“We’re also excited to see Mitch back out there after putting together some strong VFL performances.”
After three consecutive games, Dylan Moore will miss the Pies clash with a groin injury, while ruckman Jonathon Ceglar has been omitted from the side.
Hawthorn will be celebrating the inaugural Emergency Services match against Collingwood this Friday night at the MCG. Fans are encouraged to be in their seats by 7.15pm to witness an exciting pre-match ceremony.
The BankVic Emergency Services Interactive Fan Zone will be open from 4.30pm.
To donate, head to esf.com.au.
ROUND 16 TEAM
Hawthorn v Collingwood
Friday 5th July, 7.50pm
MCG
B: Tim O’Brien, James Frawley, Shaun Burgoyne
HB: Conor Nash, James Sicily, Blake Hardwick
C: Ricky Henderson, Daniel Howe, Tom Scully
HF: Luke Breust, Jack Gunston, Paul Puopolo
F: Oliver Hanrahan, Mitchell Lewis, Jarman Impey
R: Ben McEvoy, Jaeger O’Meara, James Worpel
INT: Ben Stratton, Isaac Smith, Liam Shiels, Conor Glass
Emer: Harrison Jones, Kaiden Brand, James Cousins, Jonathon Ceglar
