Veteran Hawthorn forward Jack Gunston has been selected to represent Victoria in the upcoming AAMI AFL Origin match on Saturday 14 February at Optus Stadium. 

The 34-year-old joins three fellow Hawks teammates in the highly anticipated match, playing alongside defensive duo Josh Battle and Blake Hardwick in the Big V, whilst going against Tom Barrass, who has been picked to play for Western Australia. 

Hawthorn duo set to don the ‘Big V’

Senior Coach and premiership teammate Sam Mitchell will be a familiar face in the coaches’ box, serving as an assistant coach for the Victorian team. 

Gunston’s Origin selection adds to his long list of accolades, headlined by playing a pivotal role in Hawthorn’s memorable three-peat, in 2013, 2014 & 2015. 

The much-loved forward is coming off a career-best year in 2025, earning his second All-Australian blazer, his second Peter Crimmins Medal, and his fourth Club leading goalkicker award.

Gunston managed a single-season career high 73 majors from his 23 appearances last year, finishing second in the Coleman Medal race to Victorian teammate Jeremy Cameron. 

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Jack Gunston is All Australian in 2025

Re-live some of his best moments

The Beaumaris junior is heading into his 17th season at the elite level, and is on track to play his 300th game and kick his 600th goal in 2026. 

The 2026 AAMI AFL Origin match will begin at 4.40pm AWST / 7.40pm AEDT on Saturday 14 February. 

While the match is sold out, fans can watch along on the Seven Network and Foxtel, as well as 7plus and Kayo streaming platforms. 

For more information, head to Origin.AFL. 

Jack Gunston

AFL Club: Hawthorn
State League Club: Sandringham Dragons
Community Club: Beaumaris