Canberra stars Josh Hodgson and Blake Austin will be named for Saturday’s NRL semi-final against Penrith, but whether they’re fit to take the field remains to be seen.
The Raiders announced on Monday afternoon both Hodgson and Austin will be named in coach Ricky Stuart’s side on Tuesday.
Hooker Hodgson remains a 50-50 chance to play against the Panthers after picking up an ankle injury in the weekend qualifying final loss to Cronulla.
The hooker appeared to be on the receiving end of an accidental boot from teammate Aiden Sezer as the pair attempted to tackle Sharks forward Luke Lewis.
The Englishman was forced to leave the field with the assistance of two trainers.
The Sharks claimed their first finals victory outside of Sydney thanks to a 76th-minute penalty goal from James Maloney.
A victory for Canberra would’ve brought their winning streak to 11, and with the Sharks in dire form, the loss certainly came as a shock to the Green Machine.
Meanwhile, five-eighth Austin is also listed as a 50-50 chance. He hasn’t played since round 24 after suffering a hand injury at training.
Winger Edrick Lee said on Monday Hodgson was walking freely around club HQ and in high spirits.
“It’s a good sign,” he said. “We’ve just got to see how he goes through the week and if he pulls through.
“If he’s unfortunate not to make it, the coach has got an option in Adam Clydsdale or we could be reshuffled.”
Prop Junior Paulo, who has worked closely with and benefitted from Hodgson’s stellar form this season, said the Dally M Medal contender was working hard on his rehab to play.
“For now, we’re training as if Hodgo will be there and is packing in at hooker for us,” Paulo said.
The Panthers are coming off a dominant performance against the Bulldogs, powered by a 24-point second half display that took advantage of a lacklustre Canterbury defence.
While Penrith had started the game slowly and will need to address problems surrounding their last tackle options, their second half performance should remind the Raiders of just how potent their attack can be.
The battle between Matt Moylan and Jack Wighton will be one to watch while Blake Austin could come back to haunt his former team.
The winner will go on to face Melbourne Storm at AAMI Park on September 24.
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