Emerging North Melbourne midfielder Will Phillips will start on the field for the first time this season when the Kangaroos challenge the Hawks at UTAS Stadium.

Phillips, who had an impressive summer, replaces Jy Simpkin due to his one-match suspension for striking Fremantle's Caleb Serong last week.

The third-year Kangaroo featured in the season-opener against the Eagles as the sub, and finished the day with 17 disposals and four clearances, but was left out of the Round 2 side.

Darcy Tucker, Daniel Howe, Flynn Perez and Hamish Free shape as the four emergencies, with the sub to selected on gameday from the quartet.

Senior coach Alastair Clarkson and Liam Shiels will also face their former clubs for the first time since arriving at Arden Street, as will Howe should he be selected as the 23rd man.

The first bounce is scheduled for 1.45pm AEDT, with the match to be broadcast live on Fox Footy and Kayo.