Cyril Rioli will make his long-awaited return to the game when he lines up against the Magpies in Hawthorn’s Round 1 clash.

The four-time premiership star hasn’t been seen at AFL level since Round 8 last year, after sustaining a knee injury that cruelled the remainder of his 2017 campaign.

Nearing a return to full fitness, Rioli was then granted personal leave to be with his family after his father suffered a heart attack in September last year.

Rewind: 10 years since Cyril's debut

He returned to the club after Christmas to commence the pre-season, with many believing the delayed start would prevent the star forward from a Round 1 return.

But, according to GM-Football Graham Wright, the Hawks’ match committee are confident Rioli is ready for a return, following an impressive month on the training track.

“Cyril has put his best foot forward since returning to the club in January,” said Wright.

“He’s committed himself to the program and completed all the necessary extras to ensure his fitness is up to scratch.

“We’re really impressed with the way he has applied himself, and we’re looking forward to seeing him back out on the park this weekend.”

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