​Underrated forward Dave Gruber has been left out of the Wollongong Hawks team to face Adelaide in Thursday night’s round three battle at Adelaide Arena.

The Hawks flew to Adelaide on Wednesday without Gruber, who was also omitted from the lineup for last week’s clash with Cairns.

Wollongong have 11 contracted players on the roster in 2014-15 but only 10 can suit up for each game.

Gruber has drawn the short straw in two of the Hawks’ first four games.

‘‘It’s tough because Gruber’s such a hard-working, blue collar guy,’’ Wollongong forward Tim Coenraad said.

‘‘I’ve been with him for so long now, since the start of my NBL career. I know how much work he puts in. It’s an unfortunate situation, but we have to keep moving forward.’’

Gruber is in his sixth season with the Hawks and was one of the club’s most consistent players last year.

The 198cm enforcer would be deeply disappointed to be squeezed out of the meeting with the 36ers and hoping to be included in the 10-man team for Sunday’s home game against New Zealand.

Tickets for the Hawks’ Fun Day Sunday start from $12 for children, $19 for adults and $49 for families.

Kids under four get in free.