James Sicily (Hawthorn)
After kicking four goals and collecting 15 disposals against West Coast on a big stage last week, James Sicily and Hawthorn fans alike will be hoping that he can repeat the dose against the Bulldogs this week.
With Jarryd Roughead still some way off from a return, Sicily has plenty of time to establish himself in the Hawks’ line-up, and performances like his against West Coast will see his confidence skyrocket.
Jake Stringer (Western Bulldogs)
One of the most exciting young forwards in the competition, Jake Stringer is dangerous both in the air and at ground level.
He also loves playing at Etihad Stadium, where he has kicked 29 goals in his last nine games.
Hawthorn’s defenders will need to be on their game to limit his output on Sunday - and it will be interesting to see who lines up on the dangerous Dog. Could it be Ben Stratton, Angus Litherland, or maybe Josh Gibson?
Jordan Lewis (Hawthorn)
The stand-in skipper has had a hot start to the 2016 season, collecting 30 disposals against the Cats and then 28 touches and a goal against the Eagles.
With Luke Hodge on the sidelines, the Hawks will be hoping Jordan Lewis can continue to accumulate these kinds of numbers, alongside fellow midfield magnet Sam Mitchell.
Robert Murphy (Western Bulldogs)
The Bulldogs’ rebound out of defence – and ability to transition quickly from defence to attack – has been a key to their success this season.
Dogs skipper Robert Murphy sets the tone for his side, marshalling a team of running defenders including the likes of Matthew Boyd, Jason Johannissen, Shane Biggs and Easton Wood.
Averaging 29.5 disposals per game in 2016 – with a disposal efficiency of 86.4 per cent – limiting Murphy’s influence will be important for the Hawks.
Will Langford (Hawthorn)
Will Langford looks extremely determined to hold his place in the Hawthorn line-up this season with two impressive performances so far.
He racked up 20 touches against Geelong, but more importantly recorded six clearances and eight tackles, followed by 23 disposals, seven clearances and 11 tackles against the West Coast Eagles.
The 23-year-old looks to be returning to the form which saw him become a vital part of the 2014 premiership team.
