Hawthorn has made one change to its line-up ahead of a blockbuster Friday night clash against North Melbourne.

Key position player Tim O’Brien will return to the side after being a late withdrawal from last week’s Brisbane game.

O’Brien missed the loss to the Lions with calf soreness but has proven his fitness ahead of the must-win game against Rhyce Shaw’s Roos.

The 25-year-old has spent time in both defence and attack throughout his 12 senior appearances this year, with his positional flexibility proving valuable across the season.

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GM – Football Graham Wright said it was an obvious choice to bring O’Brien back into the side after his week on the sidelines.

“Tim had put together some strong form in the lead up to last week,” Wright said.

“He looks to be growing in confidence at senior level and I think we’re starting to see some of his best traits shine through on a consistent basis.

“This Friday night marks an important game in the context of our season, so we’re hopeful Tim can pick up where he left off.”

Ruckman Jonathon Ceglar has been omitted from the Hawks’ Round 20 side, after being the late replacement for O’Brien the week prior.

Shaun Burgoyne is set to play his 373rd AFL game against the Kangaroos, officially breaking dual Brownlow medallist Adam Goodes' record for the most matches by an indigenous player.

ROUND 20 TEAM
North Melbourne v Hawthorn
Friday 2nd August, 7.50pm 
Marvel Stadium

B: Daniel Howe, James Frawley, James Sicily
HB: Blake Hardwick, Tim O'Brien, Ben Stratton
C: Tom Scully,Jaeger O'Meara, Ricky Henderson
HF: Liam Shiels, Jack Gunston, Conor Nash
F: Luke Breust, Mitchell Lewis, Paul Puopolo
R: Ben McEvoy, James Worpel, Shaun Burgoyne
INT: Grant Birchall, Chad Wingard, Isaac Smith, Oliver Hanrahan

In: O'Brien

Out: Ceglar (omitted)