Hawks' Serong sidelined from AFL with heart condition

It is a potentially fatal condition that causes sharp chest pain.

Serong will be restricted to walking and stretching for the next 30 days while he recovers.

"We have been working closely with a specialist sports cardiologist to ensure Jai's health is paramount to how we navigate this issue," said Hawthorn doctor Liam West in a club statement.

"The cardiologist believes Jai developed pericarditis after a viral infection that didn't show symptoms.

"Further tests will be required before Jai is cleared to begin a graded exercise program.

"Jai is no longer experiencing chest pain but is obviously disappointed that he will need a period of time out of training and match play."

The Hawks drafted Serong in 2021 and he played three AFL games last season.