Canberra Raiders star Blake Austin will lead the Green Machine's squad at the Auckland Nines next weekend, with the club giving the playmaker a chance to mentor a young generation.

Austin will be the marquee man in the Raiders' 18-strong squad for the pre-season tournament which doubles as a chance for Canberra to cast their eye over future talent.

Blake Austin is set to be named in the Raiders' squad for the Auckland Nines. Credit:Elesa Kurtz

Austin's game time will likely be managed as the club focuses on its round-one fixture against the North Queensland Cowboys in Townsville on March 4.

The timing of the Nines creates a delicate juggling act for coaches, including Ricky Stuart, with some players nursing injury and others only just returning from international duties.