HAWTHORN and the Sydney Swans have become serious rivals in recent times – they've split a couple of grand finals and have captured the AFL's last four premiership cups.

From superstar forward Lance Franklin walking out on the Hawks just weeks after helping them to a flag in 2013, to former Hawks Josh Kennedy and Ben McGlynn becoming senior regulars in Sydney and the battle emerging for the services of young Swans midfielder Tom Mitchell, the rivalry is unmatched across the competition.

Thursday night's clash at the SCG is the latest installment of a classic modern day showdown between two of the competition's most powerful clubs, so let's look at some of the intriguing match-ups that will play a huge part in which side takes the points, and top spot on the ladder.

Nick Smith v Cyril Rioli
The gun Swan has had the Hawk's measure in the battle of the former Scotch College buddies-turned All Australians. Smith held Rioli goalless from a combined 23 possessions in the 2012 and 2014 Grand Finals, but it's the past two encounters that could be most telling. In round nine Rioli kicked one goal from 11 touches as the Swans won by 14 points, but in round 16 last season, he had 20 disposals, kicked three goals, and was awarded two Brownlow votes as the Hawks belted the Swans by 89 points. It's another massive job for Smith and the Swans.

Ted Richards v Josh Gibson
After playing a cameo role in attack against Geelong last week, Richards could be an important player for the Swans again inside 50 tonight. Gibson reads the play brilliantly and is an architect of Hawthorn's backline with his ability to play off opponents and intercept mark, so Swans coach John Longmire might send Richards to do a job on the star Hawk. If the veteran can limit Gibson's influence and sneak a goal or two, it could hand his side a major advantage.

Luke Hodge v Lance Franklin
Hawthorn's captain won't be Franklin's direct opponent but he's the chief organiser in defence, so his communication with the likes of James Frawley, Ben Stratton and Josh Gibson, who will likely all find themselves on the star Swans, and his third man up help, will be crucial. Hodge was outstanding against Port Adelaide last week and the dual Norm Smith medallist looms as a massive player in the outcome of this top of the table clash.

Tom Mitchell v Sam Mitchell
The namesakes went head to head in round nine and the Swans clearly got the better of the contest, with Tom Mitchell limiting the Hawk to just 15 possessions, the only time he's had fewer than 24 in a game this year. Longmire doesn't like to use any of his men in total shutdown roles, but Mitchell is capable of clamping down on Hawthorn's ball magnet at the contest while also winning the footy himself.

Bradley Hill v Dan Hannebery
Last year's AFL Coaches' Association MVP has been in sensational form again this year and had a game-high 33 touches the last time these teams met, while Hill has been struggling after a delayed start to the season and some off-field issues. The task of taking on Hannebery could be just the thing to spark Hill's season, and while he might not be able to run with the Swan all night, his speed could worry Hannebery going the Hawks' way.

John Longmire v Alastair Clarkson
The former North Melbourne players remain close mates, and as fate would have it, they're in charge of two of the great modern day clubs. Clarkson holds sway in the head-to-head battles, winning nine of the 14 matches including three of four finals. Unfortunately that one finals loss was the 2012 premiership decider. Both men are unlikely to spring too many surprises on the night – there's no real need when they've had so much recent success – but with a third and possibly fourth meeting a strong possibility this year, who knows if that will change?