RAIDER'S skipper Jarrad Stack will make his first appearance when North Wales Crusaders visit Craven Park tomorrow (kick off 3pm).

Work commitments ruled Stack out of the previous two pre-season friendlies against former club Workington and Newcastle.

But the popular Australian born forward/ centre will get his first run out as Barrow rap up their friendly games prior to the opening Championship fixture when Sheffield visits next weekend.

Also, back in contention after missing the Newcastle fixture is pack leader Carl Forster who suffered concussion the previous week against Workington.

And former Workington winger Tee Ritson 22 tries last season is also making his first appearance along with Declan Hulme.

Coach Paul Crarey said “Declan will have his first run out following a knee problem. He will have an injection and we will see how he responds. If it doesn't work out, he may need an operation.

"We hope he doesn't have to go down that route as we have a long and hard season ahead in the Championship.

"We want to stay clear of injuries, we don't want an abundance of lads out at the same time."

Awaiting late fitness tests are full back Luke Creswell and new recruit Josh Woods. Both sustained thigh injuries against Newcastle and though both are keen to play, it would be wise to give them the weekend off with the Sheffield game on the horizon.

Crarey added “It was a good second half against Newcastle, we played some good rugby and scored some great tries. It’s nice to win these games but that is not the important factor.

"We need these games to give the lads a run out and see how the new players blend in.

"There is a lot of chopping and changing but we have to see how things go.

"It was good to see Jake Carter come on and put in a good stint, Jake had not been well and also had a ankle problem, but he looked in good shape. It’s nice to see him and Ryan Johnston developing along with Charlie Emslie and Connor Terrill all from the Furness Raiders production line.”

The game has an added interest with Crusaders Coach Anthony Murray back to where he had a good playing spell with Barrow as well as being team boss. Also, former Raiders favourite Jono Smith alongside Brad Brennan.

Crusaders play their first pre-season game and next weekend go to Murrays former club and Amateur side Leigh Miners in the challenge cup.

The RFL announced this week that Scrums will return next weekend after being banned last season due to Covid.