Hawthorn defender Josh Battle spent Thursday in hospital undergoing tests for abdominal pain, but the club expects him to be available for Saturday’s clash against Melbourne in Launceston. The 27-year-old, who has played every game since joining the Hawks last season, presented to hospital as a precaution before the team’s flight to Tasmania.
Gunston’s Return Remains Uncertain
While Battle is likely to get the green light, the status of All Australian forward Jack Gunston remains unclear. Gunston has not played since Round 13, when he kicked five goals against St Kilda before being rested in the final quarter due to a mid-foot problem. Coach Sam Mitchell expressed cautious optimism before Thursday’s training session but acknowledged the uncertainty.
“We’re much more optimistic,” Mitchell said. “Having said that, I’ve stood here probably three times over the last six weeks and said ‘looking better’. So I will say the same thing again — looking better.” Mitchell noted that easing off Gunston’s training last week appeared to help. “Let’s take the extra bit of time and that seems to have made a positive impact,” he added.
Watson Out, Hill to Debut
Forward Nick Watson will miss Saturday’s game due to a hamstring issue, but Mitchell expects him to return next week. “He’s overloaded in his hamstring, which means the risk of further damage is there. We don’t want to take that (risk) at this time of year with a player like him,” Mitchell said. Watson’s absence opens the door for rugby league convert Matt Hill to make his AFL debut. Mitchell praised Hill’s physicality and speed: “There were some things from rugby that he brought straight away. If he’s on the mark, I wouldn’t suggest you try to take him on. Tackling him, I’d be a little bit careful too, because he has a few tricks up his sleeve. He’s lightning-quick and does some great things around the ball.”
Contract Talks and Injury Updates
Mitchell is optimistic about progress on a new deal for forward Mitch Lewis, who has played 15 games this season. However, Conor Nash remains sidelined with a neck problem, having last played in Round 12. The Hawks hope to have more news on his return next week. Hawthorn suffered their worst loss of the season to Melbourne in Round 11 at the MCG, and Mitchell acknowledged the challenge ahead. “Melbourne early in the year, everyone was watching them, not sure. I think everyone is sure now — they’re a good side. They have potency with a lot of their individual players, but also their system. The way they play is conducive to strong, high-level footy in big games and big moments. We weren’t able to get it done last time. We weren’t even close to their level of intensity around the ball, in particular. We learned some lessons from that game.”
