Welcome to the Canberra Raiders, Bill Tupou.

The 23-year-old will makes his debut for the Raiders in Sunday's match against the Sea Eagles at Canberra Stadium, the first under interim coach Andrew Dunemann.

David Furner's shock sacking on Tuesday has ensured Tupou's elevation into the first-grade line-up has been largely overlooked.

Tupou joined the Raiders from the New Zealand Warriors before the June 30 deadline on a 2½- year deal, but has been biding his time in the NSW Cup with Mounties.

Mounties coach Steve Antonelli backed Tupou - nicknamed ''Mini Beast'' after his former Warriors teammate Manu Vatuvei - to make the most of his chance in his first NRL game in the centres.

Tupou is expected to alternate between wing and centre with Sami Sauiluma, who has been recalled to the first-grade side in place of the injured Jack Wighton.

''Tupou deserves his crack, he's been one of my best outside backs for the last few weeks,'' Antonelli said.

''When he carries the ball he's so strong, so I reckon it'd be a good tussle between him and Matai.''

Tupou played 62 games for the Warriors, including nine appearances in the top grade this season.

He's well aware of the dangers presented by Matai, the Kiwi international rated as one of the hardest hitters in the game.

''I've actually played against him so I know what he's capable of, he's a first-class centre,'' Tupou said.

''I work well with Sami, and during the game we'll swap [between wing and centre].

''We need to bring [our combination] into this week's game.''

Brian McLennan, who coached the Warriors last year, said Tupou's strong carries out of dummy-half and experience will be vital.

''I wish him all the best and it's a very important match for the Raiders,'' McLennan said.

''He had a pretty good season [in 2012], he had a better season the year before, and was pretty instrumental in helping the team get through to the grand final.''