Hawthorn will be without Will Day for Friday night's clash against the Western Bulldogs after the young gun entered the AFL's health and safety protocols.
The 21-year-old has managed ten games for Hawthorn this season after an injury riddled 2021 campaign, managing just five games across the year as he battled ongoing ankle issues.
Though Day has been sidelined, the Hawks are set to regain a valuable duo in Jack Gunston and Mitch Lewis for the Friday night affair.
Gunston is on the mend from a second ankle injury within a month, but is expected to face the Dogs. While Lewis was sidelined last match after developing swelling in his knee, but recovered well over the bye.
The club confirmed on Wednesday evening that mid-season recruit James Blanck will make his debut against the Dogs.
Blanck was picked up with pick 20 in the mid-season draft after three seasons at Box Hill, becoming the next mid-season recruit to be selected in the senior side less than a month after being drafted.
“It’s very exciting for James to earn this opportunity so soon after joining the club,” Head of Football Rob McCartney said.
“Having worked hard at his craft at Box Hill across several seasons, James has developed his game to a level where we are confident he can impact at AFL level.
“He brings an exciting skill-set into the side, including a strong capacity to compete through the air to nullify his opponents.
“We are looking forward to seeing him play his role against a really polished Western Bulldogs outfit under lights on Friday.”
The Hawks are set to face the finals hungry Bulldogs at Marvel Stadium at 7pm (AEST) on Friday night.
