WELL before he arrived at Hawthorn last November, everyone knew about the AFL potential of Cyril "Junior Boy" Rioli.

His uncles include Michael Long and Maurice Rioli, while Dean Rioli is a cousin – all former AFL stars.

There was also plenty of talk out of the Northern Territory about the talent of the latest Rioli.

Now Cyril and long-time Darwin friend Cameron Stokes have been through a pre-season with the Hawks, the pair are attracting comparisons to two other well-known indigenous players.

"We've been laughing through the club for quite a time, when they've played through the NAB Cup, that they've looked like the Krakouer brothers (North Melbourne's Jim and Phil)," said Hawks coach Alastair Clarkson.

"One's a left-footer, one's a right-footer, they're both very, very talented and quick.

"They've got to make their way in the game, too, they've got a long way to go as players.

"But we've been really excited with what they've done over the course of the summer."

Stokes joined the club as a rookie late last year and the former NT under-18 captain has gained a senior berth.

Rioli and Stokes will make their senior debuts on Sunday against Melbourne in the twilight game at the MCG, while former Port Adelaide premiership player Stuart Dew will also play his first game for the Hawks.

Melbourne will blood first-gamers Isaac Weetra and Cale Morton.

"You just train hard for it and work, to get a reward is just a great opportunity and I'm looking forward to it," Stokes said.

"To have Cyril there beside me is great. I've played a lot of footy beside him, so I'm just looking forward to it."

Hawthorn will start strong favourites on Sunday, but they will be without Luke Hodge, Shane Crawford, Campbell Brown and Jordan Lewis through suspension.

"This time last year, you couldn't have bought odds for Hawthorn beating Melbourne, they were premiership fancies," Clarkson said.

"Internally, we know we're coming up against a very, very talented and competitive beast.

"Mainly injury and some other factors last year ... caused Melbourne to have a poorer season than (they) should have.

"We know the talent within that squad ... we're going to need to play at our very best to get across the line."