Hawks midfielder James Cousins will take his place in the Hawks side ahead of its clash with Melbourne at the MCG on Saturday night.

Cousins will replace Nash with the Irishman forced to withdraw after attending the Australia-France rugby game on July 13 that has since been labelled an exposure site by the State Government.

It will be Cousins' ninth appearance in season 2021.

Hawthorn Head of Football Rob McCartney said the club was disappointed to lose Nash out of the side but fully respected the circumstances that have caused his withdrawal. 

"Conor is now following the advice of the State Government and the AFL, which we completely understand and accept," McCartney said.

"We're confident James can come in and have an impact for us tonight."