Hawthorn star midfielder Jai Newcombe has reaffirmed his commitment to the club by penning a six-year extension, taking him until the end of 2032.
The reigning Peter Crimmins medallist was already contracted for next year, but amid career-best form and a crucial cog in the Hawks' midfield, the decision to extend made sense.
He'll be 31 by the end of his new contract.
Newcombe is on the verge of playing his 100th AFL game after being taken in the 2021 Mid-Season Draft despite being overlooked in previous intakes.
The Poowong product is arguably the most successful MSD prospect, claiming the AFL Coaches Association's Best Young Player and won Hawthorn's coveted Lethal Award in the past few years, as well as finishing on the podium in the club's best and fairest counts.
Hawthorn National List and Recruiting Manager Mark McKenzie was ecstatic that the "premier midfielder" had recommitted to the club long term.
"Jai's rise from a mid-season draftee to one of the premier midfielders in the league has been a credit to his persistence, leadership and poise at the elite level, and it is fantastic to see him rewarded with this contract extension," McKenzie said.
"We know that Jai will turn 31 in the final year of this contract, meaning he will still be at the peak of his powers, which is an exciting prospect.
"Having already signed with the club until 2026, this contract extension will allow Jai to continue his rapid rise for many years to come."
Newcombe and the Hawks will head to South Australia for a Friday night blockbuster against Adelaide.
Following the Crows clash, tough match-ups against Collingwood and Brisbane (away) are to come, while a Melbourne battle placed between the past two premiers will also feature before the season ends.
