Hawthorn to ramp up contract talks with star veteran

TALKS on a potential new contract for Jack Gunston are set to ramp up over Hawthorn’s Round 14 bye.

Gunston, who formalised a one-year deal in August last year, has this season continued his late-career renaissance, with a league-leading 35 goals from nine games.

The veteran forward has kicked 85 goals in his last 24 matches dating back to half-way through last year and unless he wants to hang up hang up the boots, would be considered a certainty to play on.

At 34, Gunston is in the form of his life at the tip of the Hawks attack having appeared close to footy mortality following his one season at Brisbane in 2023.

SEN’s Adam Simpson has repeatedly praised Gunston’s form this season, but also Hawthorn’s tactics that allow him to play as a deeper lying forward who challenges modern defensive systems.

It’s this role, combined with Hawthorn’s premiership window being open, that many believe could prolong Gunston’s career for multiple seasons.

It is unclear what affect - if any - Gunston's decision will have on the future of the out-of-contract Calsher Dear, who has managed only four appearances this year.

Mitch Lewis, meanwhile, is enjoying his best season in three years.