Hawthorn’s backline is set to be bolstered with exciting defender Changkuoth Jiath on the cusp of making his return against Brisbane on Sunday.

The 22-year-old, who will be a test ahead of this weekend's game, has been missing in action for the last four games after sustaining a hamstring injury.

Prior to his injury, Jiath had produced a strong start to the season, averaging more than 20 touches this year across his five games.

In some unfortunate news, veteran forward Jack Gunston is set to miss at least the next fortnight after injuring his ankle in a contest during last Saturday’s clash with the Tigers.

The three-time premiership forward was substituted out of the game early in the second quarter after landing awkwardly on the quarter-time siren. 

Gunston had played every game this season after making his long-awaited return from a troublesome back injury last year.

Youngster Tyler Brockman is also set to be out for the remainder of the season after he dislocated his shoulder a fortnight ago in Box Hill’s match against Essendon.  

Hear the latest from Hawthorn’s Rehabilitation Coordinator Jack Price in this week’s AIA Vitality Update.

Injury list

Changkuoth Jiath – hamstring – test  

Emerson Jeka – hamstring – 5 weeks   

Tom Phillips – ankle – 6 weeks

Josh Ward – concussion – TBC

Jack Gunston – ankle – TBC

Ned Reeves – shoulder – TBC

Ben McEvoy – neck – TBC

Tyler Brockman – shoulder – season