Josh Hodgson, Blake Austin cleared for Raiders in NRL

Star hooker Hodgson was expected to miss with an ankle injury, but he will play on Saturday, while Austin will join him after recovering from a broken hand.

Hodgson, who rated his chances as only slim heading into the clash, lauded the team's medical staff.

"I am a bit surprised, but at the same time excited," he said.

"The physios have been fantastic and sorted me out straight away once it happened. I spent three full days in the physio room getting the bruising and swelling sorted out.

"I'm really grateful and looking forward to the game tomorrow."

The Raiders went down to the Cronulla Sharks in the first week of the finals and will meet the Melbourne Storm if they can overcome the Panthers.