The Raiders' belief that their depth is the best for years will be given a stern test after star backs Josh Dugan and Jarrod Croker were left out of the round-one side to play Penrith on Sunday.
While Canberra assistant coach Andrew Dunemann insisted they could still play, it is highly unlikely, as the club is not willing to risk two of its most valuable commodities.
Dugan (lip infection) spent three days in hospital last week on an intravenous drip, and hasn't played or trained since Canberra's trial against Mounties and Wyong on February 23.
Reece Robinson, outstanding at fullback when Dugan was out injured last year, has been named in the No.1 jersey.
Edrick Lee will play on the left wing, with Jack Wighton replacing Croker (knee) at left centre.
Both youngsters made their debuts last season with stunning success, giving the Raiders confidence they can cover the loss of Dugan and Croker.
The pair will be given final chances to prove their fitness at training on Wednesday, but the expectation is they will be wrapped in cotton wool for the season opener.
''We're in a position where everyone else is fit, we don't see the need to be rushing those guys back in for the first game,'' Dunemann said.
''They could [still] play but have to prove their fitness 100 per cent, otherwise we'll be happy to run with what we've got.''
Asked if it was likely they would err on the side of caution, Dunemann replied: ''I think at this stage of the season, you're mad if you don't.
''The guys in there showed they can do the job in the trials, and if we don't have to change it we probably won't.
''That's the beauty of us at the moment, we've got plenty of depth there and there's no need to push that panic button yet, it's not being cocky.''
The omission of sharpshooter Croker and second-elect Dugan means Robinson will assume the goal-kicking duties.
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Topic: Raiders shrug off absence of star pair
