Hawthorn has made three changes for its Thursday night battle with the Western Bulldogs at Marvel Stadium. 

As confirmed earlier on Wednesday afternoon, Sam Butler will make his long-awaited return to the Hawks' AFL line-up after overcoming a broken leg last year.

Thursday night's game will mark his first AFL game since Round 5 in 2024, making it more than 400 days since he last pulled on the brown and gold at the top level.

Joining Butler in the team will be another duo that has impressed at VFL level, in defender Seamus Mitchell and forward/ruck Max Ramsden. 

Mitchell has averaged 26.5 disposals and 8.3 marks from his eight Box Hill matches, while Ramsden has kicked 15 majors from his nine games at the level. 

As reported on Tuesday afternoon, Captain James Sicily will miss Thursday night's match due to a hip/ abdominal injury, joining Nick Watson (illness) and Jack Scrimshaw (managed) on the sidelines.

Hawthorn Executive General Manager of Football Rob McCartney highlighted the strong form of all three inclusions heading into the game. 

"The inclusion of Sam Butler is a wonderful story of both resilience and persistence after breaking his leg earlier in the year last season," McCartney said. 

"He only returned to playing VFL football this year, and his form in the last month as an inside mid has gone from strength to strength.

"The whole playing group are extremely excited that he's earned his position to be an AFL footballer this weekend.

"Seamus returns after a month of outstanding footy at VFL level.

"His run and carry from the back half will definitely be something that'll be suited to Marvel Stadium under the roof. 

"Max will play his first game of AFL football in 2025 after playing five matches in the previous two years.

"As a tall developing forward/ ruck, he's worked hard on his craft to be in a position to come in with confidence to compete at the elite level.