Hawks fans, rejoice: Grant Birchall has been named to make his return to the AFL stage this weekend.

740 days since his last senior appearance, Birchall will run out with his teammates at UTAS Stadium on Saturday afternoon when the Hawks take on the Dockers.

It’s been a tough couple of years for the veteran defender; a fractured jaw in early 2017 was followed by a PCL injury that ruled him out of 2018, before calf issues hampered the best part of his 2019 campaign.

But there are clear skies on the horizon, and this weekend could mark the start of a new chapter for the four-time premiership star.

“I’m just really excited to get back out there again,” said Birchall.

“It’s been a tough two years, but I get my opportunity this week so I’m rapt.

“My body is the best it’s been for a long time.

“I’ve ticked all the boxes, I’m fit, I’m ready to go, so I’m looking forward to it.”

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A Tassie boy at heart, Birchall says he’s looking forward to making his return in front of a host of familiar faces.

“My friends and family will be down there watching so it’s really exciting.

“It’s a great ground, we know the ground really well and we’ve had some great success down there.

“We’re looking forward to it, and hopefully we can come away with a win.”