Hudson Young close to signing three-year extension with Canberra Raiders

The Canberra Raiders are just thrashing out the finer details, but it's a massive boost for the Green Machine on the eve of the NRL season.

Young's off-contract at the end of the year, with the new deal set to keep him in the capital until at least the end of 2024.

The 22-year-old announced himself as an NRL forward last season, playing in the middle, but he's switched to his more natural spot in the second row.

He looks set to replace John Bateman, who returned to England in the off-season, on the right edge.

The Raiders still have about seven players off contract, including Queensland State of Origin prop Dunamis Lui, but they'll wait several rounds into the season before deciding who they'll lock in next.

Young centre Harley Smith-Shields' contract also expires at the end of the season.

He's in the mix to play left centre for Canberra if co-captain Jarrod Croker's unable to return from shoulder surgery in time for round one against the Wests Tigers at Canberra Stadium on March 14.

Croker returned to full training after meeting with the specialist on Monday and will be given every opportunity to prove his fitness.

Young played in the second row for the first half of the Raiders' trial against the Sydney Roosters last weekend.

Overall he was pleased with the hit out, scoring the Green Machine's opening try.

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But he felt they needed to work on their defence - something he tipped would improve as the right edge built their combinations.

He's spent the pre-season working with halfback George Williams and centre Curtis Scott to improve their cohesion.

Corey Harawira-Naera was also in the mix to cover the void left by Bateman, but the NRL will likely suspend him due to his upcoming court appearance for a drink driving charge.

"A little bit loose in defence and that, but that's probably just timing and that will come throughout the early games of the season," Young said.

His good mate Tom Starling's in the mix to face the Tigers with Raiders coach Ricky Stuart boasting a plethora of options in the forwards.

Starling could fill the No.14 role with Canberra star hooker Josh Hodgson returning from a knee injury.

"I'm not too sure what's happening there," Young said.

"Obviously Tommy had a great season last year and it will be good to see him hopefully get that 14 jersey."

NRL ROUND ONE

March 14: Canberra Raiders v Wests Tigers at Canberra Stadium, 4.05pm.