Despite question marks over his AFL future, Karmichael Hunt continues to press strong claims for Gold Coast SUNS senior selection after an injury-interrupted pre-season.

Hunt has performed admirably for the Gold Coast SUNS NEAFL team in the first two rounds of the season, kicking 3.2 against Southport Sharks in the season opener in a game where the team only managed 9.4.

The NRL convert followed up that performance with an equal team-high 19 possessions against the Brisbane Lions reserves, also collecting 6 clearances and a goal in an 89-point defeat.

“I feel like I’ve strung four-five games together now so I’m feeling pretty confident on my form,” Hunt told goldcoastfc.com.au.

“I guess its now just waiting for my opportunity.”

The 27-year-old hopes that opportunity will come on Saturday night against the reigning premiers, Hawthorn, at Metricon Stadium.

“I don’t think it gets any better in terms of competition,” Hunt said.

“Obviously they’re the form team and premiers from last year so for us to be playing them on our home deck in front of what hopefully will be a big crowd is going to be an exciting night.”

The round four clash against the Hawks looms as a benchmark match for a young and developing SUNS team determined to prove themselves against arguably the competition’s best, an assessment Hunt agrees with.

“This where you find out where you are finally at, when you play good teams like the Hawks.

“They’re going to come up and test us.”

There is a growing sense of confidence amongst the playing group and a strong performance this weekend will go a long way to enhancing that belief according to Hunt.

“We’re going to take a lot of confidence away from knowing where we are at as a football team, and also individually.”