Hawthorn will kick off its 2018 season under Saturday night lights in a blockbuster clash against Collingwood.

It will be the first time the two sides have met in Round 1 since 2012, when the Hawks emerged 22-point victors.

But the Pies have had the better of the Hawks over their history of Round 1 encounters, winning nine of a possible 12 hit outs. 

Hawthorn will likely be buoyed by the return of premiership stars Cyril Rioli, Ben Stratton, James Frawley and Grant Birchall, each of whom missed large chunks of 2017 through injury. Hawks fans should also get their first glimpse of new recruit Jarman Impey as he makes his club debut.

As usual, Carlton will take on reigning premiers Richmond to kick off the round on Thursday night, followed by a Friday night clash between Essendon and Adelaide at Etihad Stadium.

Read: JLT Community Series fixture announced 

2018 Round 1 fixture

Thursday, March 22


Richmond v Carlton, MCG, 7.25pm


Friday, March 23


Essendon v Adelaide, Etihad Stadium, 7.50pm


Saturday, March 24


St Kilda v Brisbane Lions, Etihad Stadium, 3.35pm


Port Adelaide v Fremantle, Adelaide Oval, 4.35pm


Gold Coast v North Melbourne, Cazaly’s Stadium, Cairns, 7.25pm

Hawthorn v Collingwood, MCG, 7.25pm



Sunday, March 25


Greater Western Sydney v Western Bulldogs, Canberra, 1.10pm

Melbourne v Geelong, MCG, 3.20pm


West Coast v Sydney, Perth Stadium, 7.10pm

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