Hawthorn youngster Jai Serong will miss at least two months after being diagnosed with a heart issue.
A specialist has diagnosed the 20-year-old with pericarditis, an inflammation of tissue within the heart that can cause sharp chest pain.
Serong now requires a period of exercise restriction and medication, according to the Hawks.
Jai Serong will spend at least the next two months on the sidelines after being diagnosed with a heart issue.
— Hawthorn FC (@HawthornFC) March 30, 2023
Sending all our love and support to Jai. 🤎https://t.co/p2e1DkwzK8
"We have been working closely with a Specialist Sports Cardiologist to ensure Jai's health is paramount to how we navigate this issue. The Cardiologist believes Jai developed pericarditis after a viral infection that didn't show symptoms,” Hawthorn doctor Liam West said in a club statement.
“Jai’s activity levels will be minimised to just walking and stretching across the next 30 days.
“Further tests will be required before Jai is cleared to begin a graded exercise program.
“Jai is no longer experiencing chest pain but is obviously disappointed that he will need a period of time out of training and match play.
“We will ensure that Jai receives the best in medical and wellbeing support during this period.
“We would also ask that the privacy of Jai and his family is respected through this time.”
Serong has played three games for Hawthorn, all coming in 2022.
He was drafted with a fourth round pick in the 2021 National Draft.