HAWTHORN could receive an unexpected boost for the early weeks of the season, with injured premiership midfielder Liam Shiels a chance to be available from round two.

Shiels fractured his right wrist in the Hawks' 45-point win over North Melbourne in the final week of the NAB Challenge, but has made better than expected progress in his recovery.

Hawthorn revealed on Thursday afternoon that the 24-year-old is on track for a return in time for the grand final rematch with West Coast at the MCG on Sunday April 3.

It was originally feared that the three-time premiership player could miss four to six weeks.

Shiels' progress comes at a good time for the reigning premiers, who have speedster Bradley Hill (wrist, six weeks) and key forward Jarryd Roughead (knee, 10-12 weeks) sidelined for the early part of the season.