Lewis made a half-game appearance in the VFL before the mid-season break, marking his return since Easter Monday. He recovered well after a knee cartilage issue sidelined him for 10 weeks at the start of 2024.

With nine games left in the season and potential September action in sight, Hawthorn aims to integrate Lewis back into regular play. Had Box Hill not had a bye last weekend, he would have completed a full game and likely been ready for an AFL return.

Later this week, Hawthorn will decide whether to keep Lewis in Melbourne for a full game against Port Melbourne on Saturday or field him against West Coast at Optus Stadium on Sunday.

Meanwhile, Wingard, who faced calf tightness before the bye, aims to return for Box Hill pending this week’s training. The 30-year-old hasn’t played in the AFL since injuring his Achilles in round 22 last year but is pressing for a contract extension in 2025.

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