Exciting defender James Sicily looks set to return for Hawthorn’s Qualifying final against Richmond next Thursday night.
A broken scaphoid obtained in Round 17 and the resulting surgery caused the youngster to miss the remaining six rounds of the home and away season.
But it appears Sicily’s return will come at an opportune time, as the Hawks get themselves ready for another September campaign.
“Sis is great,” said Director of High Performance Andrew Russell.
“We thought all along that he’d be ready to play in the first final and that’s the way it’s looking.
“He’s had a full training week this week, and we’re excited that he’ll be out there next Thursday.”
Fans may have to wait a bit longer to see Grant Birchall back in action, with Russell conceding the veteran defender is not yet ready to return to the field.
“We’re preparing Birch to play senior footy, [but] we don’t feel he’s quite ready yet.
“He’ll continue to do his conditioning program, continue to train hard, and when he’s ready he’s a chance to play, but he’s not there yet.”
Watch this week’s Bupa Recovery Report for a full update on Hawthorn’s injury list.
