Premiership ruckman Ben McEvoy has agreed to terms to keep him at Hawthorn until the end of 2019.

The former Saint is enjoying a career-best season averaging 32.5 hit-outs, which tops his previous best season average (2012) by more than seven taps.

Hawthorn Recruiting and List Manager Graham Wright says the 28-year-old ruckman is an integral member of Hawthorn’s playing group and both parties are delighted to have reached an agreement.

“Ben plays an important role for the side and we’re really pleased that he’ll remain in the brown and gold for a further two years,” said Wright.

“He’s had to shoulder the majority of the ruck work this season, which he has done in emphatic fashion, and he provides a strong marking target when resting up forward.

“As a seasoned campaigner, Ben offers great leadership to the young guys coming through the ranks, so he’s a really important figure to have around the club.”

Read: Young Hawk signs on