HUDDERSFIELD Giants' rising stars are ready for the biggest tests of their short careers.

Tonight they take centre stage against arguably the world's best junior side in the shape of the Penrith Panthers Under 18s at the McAlpine Stadium (7.30).

Even though the Giants will boast the likes of Super League squad men Ben Feehan, Philip Joseph and Rikkie Sheriffe in their ranks, they will be hard pressed to secure victory.

Many of these Penrith players are soon expected to progress up to the senior side, who have just been crowned Australian NRL champions following their Grand Final triumph over Sydney City Roosters.

Yet rather than filling the young Giants with fear, Academy coach Lee St Hilaire believes his players are ready to rise to the occasion.

"We're under no illusions as to the size of our task tonight," said St Hilaire.

"We're up against some of the world's best junior players, who will test our capabilities to the full.

"But as a player you always want to test yourself against the best, and there's no doubt that these Penrith boys are the best.

"Yes, we know it's going to be very tough, but the lads are genuinely excited about playing a side of this calibre, particularly as it's taking place at the McAlpine.

"For many of my players, this is the biggest game in their short careers so far."

St Hilaire has already named his starting line-up and has brought in Greenhead College second-rower Danny Hird to replace the injured Ben Clare.

Penrith coach Steve Gough has named his strongest possible side, and admits his players are relishing the challenge.

"The McAlpine is now an established Test venue, and the boys are looking forward to playing there," he said.

Only the Lawrence Batley Stand will be used tonight, with the turnstiles open at 7pm. Prices are £3 adults and £1 concessions.

Huddersfield Giants: Sheriffe; Fagborun, Feehan, Senior, George; Hemingway, Mennell; Southwell, Samuel, Mills, Gledhill, Holdsworth, Joseph. Subs: Hird, Robinson, Simpson, Sutherland, Watson.

Penrith Panthers (from): Annett, Carl, Daniella, Enosi, (C), Enosi (L), Forwood, Harden, Hawks, Heterick, Jones, Marleitner, Moors, Nightingale, Nuumaali, Paluch, Pearn, Penese, Peters, Rogers, Wallace.

Referee: Russell Smith.