Hawthorn defensive duo Josh Battle and Blake Hardwick have been selected to represent the Big-V at the AAMI AFL Origin match on Saturday 14 February at Optus Stadium. 

Battle played a starring role in his maiden season as a Hawk, claiming All-Australian honours after playing every game in 2025. 

Since crossing to the Club from St Kilda, the 27-year-old averaged 18.5 disposals at 80 per cent efficiency, 5.5 marks, 3.5 rebound 50s and 2.9 spoils across the home-and-away season. 

Battle will be joined in the Victorian side by Hawthorn teammate Blake Hardwick. 

Hardwick is one of the most highly regarded Hawks within the Club’s four walls, having impressed with his consistency and durability since being drafted with Pick 44 in the 2015 national draft. 

The Beverley Hills junior is currently on a 101 consecutive game streak, following a 65-match streak from 2017 to 2019. 

The 28-year-old once again shone in defence this year, posting strong averages of 14.7 disposals, 4.5 marks and 2.3 tackles per game. 

As announced last month, Battle and Hardwick will have a familiar face in the coaches’ box, with Sam Mitchell announced as a ‘Big V’ assistant coach. 

Tom Barrass has also been unveiled as a marquee player for Western Australia, with Hawthorn’s defensive stocks set to be well represented at Optus Stadium next year.

The 2026 AAMI AFL Origin match will begin at 4.40pm AWST / 7.40pm AEDT on Saturday 14 February, with tickets available via afl.com.au.

Josh Battle 

AFL Club: Hawthorn
State League Club: Dandenong Stingrays 
Community Club: Narre South Saints 

Blake Hardwick 

AFL Club: Hawthorn
State League Club: Eastern Ranges
Community Club: Beverley Hills