Jaeger O’Meara will captain Hawthorn in the club’s season opening clash against North Melbourne on Sunday.

Ben McEvoy and Luke Breust will be unavailable for the Hawks after the pair both entered the AFL’s health and safety protocols.

Head of Football Rob McCartney conceded this will be the reality all clubs will be confronted with at certain stages throughout the year.

“Obviously we would love to have Ben and Luke playing with us on Sunday, but our football department, and industry as a whole, is well-versed now in the need to be flexible throughout these times,” McCartney said.

“Needless to say, we have great confidence in Jaeger’s leadership and ability to step up this week.

“We’re looking forward to kicking off our season in front of our fans this weekend against the Kangaroos.”