Hawthorn's ruck woes have deepened, with Wayde Skipper set to be sidelined for up to eight weeks after hamstring surgery.

The former Western Bulldogs fringe player was picked up by the Hawks in the rookie draft to strengthen their ruck depth.

The Hawks' former No.1 ruckman Robert Campbell was forced into premature retirement by injury at the end of last season, while young prospect Max Bailey is on the long road back from a third knee reconstruction.

Simon Taylor, who entered the year as the Hawks' No.1 big man, broke his leg in a recent practice match, forcing him out for four months.

With Skipper now also out of action and untried youngster Luke Lowden on the long-term injury list, it leaves 23-game, 21-year-old Brent Renouf to carry the load, with possible support from teenage draftee Sam Grimley.

Skipper left the field in the first half of the Hawks final practice match of the pre-season against Brisbane on the Gold Coast last Friday reporting knee instability.

Further diagnosis revealed his hamstring tendon was damaged and surgery was needed.

He is expected to return to running within a fortnight, but be unavailable for selection for six to eight weeks.

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