Hawthorn Assistant Coach Luke Beveridge has told HawksTV that preparation for the start of the home-and-away season is behind the Club's decision to rest its more experienced players ahead of the match against Greater Western Sydney in Launceston on Saturday.

The Hawks have given youngsters, including Sam Grimley and Amos Frank the opportunity to impress the coaching staff, as Beveridge describes the match as an opportunity for them to "put their best foot forward".

Forward Jack Gunston has also been named, after this week revealing why he chose Hawthorn as his club of choice during last season's exchange period.

Beveridge also disscusses the new rule in place, enabling clubs to introduce up to seven new players after half time.

See the team named to take on the Giants on Saturday.

View the full exclusive interview with Luke Beveridge on HawksTV above.