AFL: Hawthorn forward Jack Gunston in doubt for Fremantle showdown because of ankle injury

The Hawks will sweat on the fitness of an important forward ahead of a tough clash with top-four rival Fremantle out west.

Jack Gunston is unlikely to be fit to play against Fremantle in Perth on Saturday. Picture: Getty Images

Star Hawk Jack Gunston is in serious doubt to make the trip west for Saturday’s showdown with red-hot Fremantle at Perth Stadium after hurting his right ankle again.

Gunston played out last weekend’s match against Collingwood despite being in obvious pain after his right leg was caught underneath Magpies defender Darcy Moore early in the second half.

The 30-year-old forward briefly left the ground but was back later in the third quarter.

Post-match scans showed Gunston avoided major damage but he is still considered unlikely to face the Dockers.

Hawthorn has its mid-season bye after playing Fremantle, so he could miss only one match and return for the Western Bulldogs clash on June 24.

Jack Gunston was in significant pain after hurting his right ankle at the weekend. Picture: Getty Images

It was Gunston’s first game back after sitting out the previous fortnight with a medial sprain of the same ankle, which was seen as a best-case scenario when he initially sustained the setback against Richmond in round 9.

Speaking after the Collingwood game, coach Sam Mitchell said Gunston’s latest issue was not the same as the previous injury.

“It didn’t look good. It’s the same ankle but a completely different injury, so it was a bit hard to assess, because obviously he was already sort of taped up,” Mitchell said.

“I just rely on the medical team for that sort of thing. They made the decision that he was capable of keeping playing and he’s a pretty important player. He’s a good player for us.

Jack Gunston was in immediate pain after hurting his right ankle against Collingwood. Picture: Getty Images

“So, if the medical team give us the tick, then I don’t really question those guys. They know what they’re doing far better than I do.”

Gunston has endured a frustrating run with injuries in the past two seasons, with a back problem wiping him out for all bar one game in 2021.

Hawthorn could opt for extra midfield depth for the Fremantle match-up, with James Worpel (31 disposals) and Finn Maginness (35) both dominant in the VFL on Sunday.

The Hawks should regain defender Jack Scrimshaw (concussion) after he missed the Magpies loss, while Josh Ward and Max Lynch will hopefully also be available for selection after missing for the same reason.

Ward’s missed three games already but is on track to play at some level this weekend.

Originally published as AFL: Hawthorn forward Jack Gunston in doubt for Fremantle showdown because of ankle injury