Hawthorn forward Tahlia Fellows is expected to be back in action for the start of Hawthorn’s AFLW pre-season as she recovers from a punctured lung.

The 24-year-old suffered the injury while playing for Box Hill in the Hawks’ VFLW Round 4 clash against Williamstown earlier this month.

Hawthorn General Manager of Football Operations Max Bailey was confident that Fellows would make a full recovery in time for the return to official training. 

“While it was an unfortunate injury as Tahlia was getting some valuable match play in the VFLW, she already started her recovery period well and is expected to return to full fitness by the end of next month,” Bailey said.

“The club continues to support Tahlia through this period and she remains in great spirits, with her rehab timeline putting her safely on track for the start of the AFLW pre-season, which commences on June 3.”