VETERAN Hawthorn onballer Brad Sewell is confident of lining up in his first home and away appearance for the season in Friday night’s grand final rematch with Fremantle.
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The dual premiership player has not played since the last practice match against Melbourne on March 8.
He pulled up with sore hamstrings after that outing, forcing him to miss the opening two rounds.
Sewell has been training strongly, with a solid hit-out on Tuesday leaving no doubt he is fit to return.
This is a big year for the 190-game veteran.
Sewell came under some pressure midway through last season, being uncharacteristically left out.
His profile on the Hawthorn Football Club website highlights last year’s momentary mid-season fall from grace.
“Sewell failed at times to capture the same form (as 2012) last year and was dropped in round 16.
“But he responded strongly, turning in several big performances in the run to the premiership. Although his disposal numbers were down across the season, the veteran still averaged more tackles a game than any other Hawk.”
Sewell, who will be an unrestricted agent at the end of the year, is eager to bring up his 200-game milestone this season to cap off a grand career with Hawthorn, which as well as two flag features a club best and fairest.
WILL bad luck for one brother open up an opportunity for another?
Brad Crouch’s season ran into a wall when he fractured a fibula against Port Adelaide at the weekend and will miss up to six weeks. The Ballarat youngster had a dream run last season, playing 16 games in his debut season for the Crows and finishing second in the AFL Rising Star Award.
Will his misfortune help open the door for his younger brother, Matt, who is in his first season with Adelaide?
Matt was emergency for the opening round clash with Geelong, indicating he is not far away from selection after an impressive pre-season.
With the SANFL not starting until tonight, the likes of Matt Crouch have only been able to impress on the training track.
david.brehaut@fairfaxmedia.com.au