Hawthorn co-captain Jai Newcombe has escaped the AFL Tribunal with a fine, freeing him to play in their opening-round clash against GWS.

Hawthorn has stunningly freed Jai Newcombe for Opening Round after successfully downgrading his rough conduct charge at the AFL Tribunal.

Gun midfielder Jai Newcombe will challenge his one-match ban for rough conduct in a bid to play in Hawthorn's season opener against GWS.

Gun midfielder Jai Newcombe will challenge his one-match ban for rough conduct in a bid to play in Hawthorn's season opener against GWS.

Calvin looks at GWS v Hawthorn.

Calvin looks at GWS v Hawthorn.

Hawthorn midfielder Jai Newcombe has been offered a one-week suspension for his tackle on Western Bulldogs star Ed Richards in last Friday night’s...

Hawthorn midfielder Jai Newcombe has been offered a one-week suspension for his tackle on Western Bulldogs star Ed Richards in last Friday night’s...

Hawks co-captain Jai Newcombe slings Bulldogs player Ed Richards to the turf during a practice game.

Hawks co-captain Jai Newcombe slings Bulldogs player Ed Richards to the turf during a practice game.