Richmond coach Damien Hardwick says Ben Cousins will be back in the AFL side for Sunday's match against North Melbourne at the MCG.

The 32-year-old missed last weekend's win over Fremantle, after spending time in a hospital intensive care ward as a result of taking too much sleeping medication.

"Ben will come straight back in, which is a good result," Hardwick said on Thursday.

Hardwick said Cousins, who had wanted to play against the Dockers despite his hospital stint, was excited about returning to what has been a spirited Tigers side in recent weeks.

"Speaking to Ben, this is one of the most exciting times he's had in his career," he said.

"He's enjoying his footy, he's contributing well, so I think he's looking forward to playing again."

The Tigers will lose fellow midfielder Daniel Jackson to suspension, while young running player Ben Nason will be sidelined by injury, after a clash of heads with teammate Jake King against Fremantle.

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