Hawthorn will be forced to make multiple changes to the side that overcame Brisbane on the weekend, with Cyril Rioli, Ben Stratton and James Frawley all facing extended stints on the sideline due to injury.
Luckily, with Box Hill continuing its undefeated start to the season (5-0), there are several young players knocking on the door for AFL selection.
The hard-running Dallas Willsmore was a key contributor, as he has been all season, for Box Hill in its Round 5 win over Richmond. The 21-year old had 24 disposals, nine marks and kicked a goal as he furthered his claim for a senior debut.
Read: Can the Hawks continue their longest winning streak against the Pies?
Fellow youngster James Cousins was also among the team's best as he mounted a case for a debut in his first year. Cousins, who has been consistently praised throughout the early stages of the season for his contested ball winning ability, collected 23 touches, seven marks and seven tackles.
Selected in the 2016 Rookie Draft, Cousins must be upgraded to Hawthorn’s senior list to be eligible for AFL selection.
Read: Hawthorn's injury report ahead of Round 9
Jack Fitzpatrick also came under an injury cloud after sustaining a head knock late in the game against Brisbane. If the recently-elevated rookie is unable to prove his fitness by Thursday, Ty Vickery may get a senior call up for the first time since Round 3. Vickery has been strong for Box Hill, kicking 11 goals in four games, and providing a solid option in the ruck.
Kade Stewart is another who could get the nod, with VFL Coach Chris Newman praised his defensive efforts in Sunday's win. Newman described the small forward as “relentless with his attack on the man”, which is epitomised through his tackle count (eight).
Read: VFL player by player review
