Hawthorn forward Jack Gunston has proven his fitness in time to take on the Brisbane Lions at the MCG on Sunday.

Having dealt with an injury-interrupted summer, Gunston will take his place in the Hawks forward line as the side looks to kick off the year with a win. 

Having not featured in any of the Hawks Marsh Community Series appearances, the All Australian forward will be a valuable addition to the line-up.

Alastair Clarkson's side will be looking to end a four-game losing streak against the Lions.

Tom Mitchell will officially make his return to the AFL field after 12 months on the sidelines, while Sam Frost and Jonathon Patton have been confirmed to make their debuts for the club.

ROUND 1 TEAM
Hawthorn v Brisbane
Sunday 22nd March, 3.20pm AEDT
MCG

B: Ben Stratton, James Frawley, Ben McEvoy
HB: James Sicily, Sam Frost, Harry Morrison
C: Tom Scully, Jaeger O’Meara, Ricky Henderson
HF: Luke Breust, Shaun Burgoyne, Isaac Smith 
F: Tim O’Brien, Jon Patton, Chad Wingard
R: Jon Ceglar, James Worpel, Tom Mitchell
INT: Jack Gunston, Liam Shiels, Oliver Hanrahan, Paul Puopolo