Canberra fullback Josh Dugan is firming as a likely starter for Sunday’s NRL elimination final against Cronulla after he – and his bung ankle – made it through a full contact session unscathed.

But doubts remain about injured halfback Sam Williams, who only managed limited time on the training paddock on Thursday.

Dugan and Williams both missed the Raiders’ 42-22 victory over New Zealand on the weekend, which clinched them sixth spot on the ladder and the advantage of a home final.

But Canberra coach David Furner has optimistically named both in his 20-man squad for Sunday and will give the pair until the final moment to prove their fitness, with a decision likely to be made on game day morning.

Williams has proved to be the greater concern of the two, having strained his left shoulder during the Canterbury game a fortnight ago.

Furner said this week the halfback would not take to the field unless he’s capable of taking on a physical Sharks outfit.

“Certainly he’s got to be fit and ready to play,” the coach said.

“They’re a very aggressive side and we’ve got to combat that, so Sammy won’t be put in there unless he’s right to go and can handle that contact.”

Williams would be a significant loss for the high-flying Raiders, who’d credit much of their late-season success to his combination with Josh McCrone in the halves.

But the Raiders will be confident of filling the breach with utility back Shaun Berrigan a more than adept replacement when he stepped into the role against the Warriors.

Adaptability in the halves has proven to be Canberra’s strong point this season, said McCrone, who’s had four partners there this season in Williams, Dugan, Berrigan and injuredskipper Terry Campese.

“If you get some stability in the halves it’s always good for your team,” McCrone said.

“I do think with Sammy that’s been working pretty well for us, but in saying that Berro did a pretty good job last week.

“It’s only a matter of time that if you stick with a combination it’s going to work.”