Although Storm had few problems defeating Brisbane Easts 36-8 at Langlands Park last weekend, Walters expects the Raiders to be a much tougher proposition with players of the ilk of Josh Dugan, Terry Campese and Joel Thompson lining up.

“It should be a tough hit-out,” Walters said.

“That’s what these trials are about.

“Canberra is a pretty big side so we will get some fitness out of it.”

Melbourne Storm cpach Craig Bellamy has named a strong 25-man squad despite star trio Cooper Cronk, Cameron Smith and Billy Slater missing the clash due to injury and unavailability.

Walters said he was excited by the prospect of seeing veteran Roosters prop Jason Ryles debut for the club and emerging youngster Jesse Bromwich in full flight.

“It should be a good game,” he said.

“Last year we played the Raiders in a trial at Merimbula and it was a really good success for the town.

“Albury is no different.

“I went to Albury 20 years ago in my days and it’s a nice little town and I’m all sure all the locals will be very welcoming of the Storm and Raiders.

“They have Campese coming back, Dugan and they have a monster pack.”

Melbourne was bitterly disappointed with last season’s preliminary final 20-12 loss to the Warriors and is hoping the return of Ryan Hoffman and inclusion of Ryles helping offset the loss of Adam Blair.

Walters said he was confident that club had worked hard to improve.

“I thought we played some really good football at different stages last year,” he said.

“We would like to continue that this year.”

Saturday’s match starts at 7pm.

Storm squad: Maurice Blair, Jesse Bromwich, Kenny Bromwich, Will Chambers, Matt Duffie, Mahe Fonua, Mitchell Garbutt, Michael Greenfield, Tohu Harris, Ryan Hinchcliffe, Ryan Hoffman, Luke Kelly, Rory Kostjasyn, Todd Lowrie, Sika Manu, Shea Moylan, Dane Nielsen, Bryan Norrie, Justin O’Niell, Kevin Proctor, Anthony Quinn, Jason Ryles, Siosaia Vave, Sisa Waqa, Gareth Widdop.