The news could get even better for ACT cricket fans, with Australian captain Michael Clarke putting his hand up to play at Manuka Oval if the Blues host the final.

Smith and Lyon are strong chances of being included when NSW announces its team on Sunday for the vital four-day clash with Western Australia, starting on Tuesday.

The Warriors will counter with Shaun Marsh, the 30-year-old eager to get among the runs after scoring a century in the first Test of the series in South Africa.

NSW selectors will speak with both Smith and Lyon and consult Cricket Australia about each player's workloads before making a decision on their availability.

Lyon will prove his fitness by playing for Northern Districts in the Sydney first-grade one-day final on Sunday.

While Clarke will be rested for the match with Western Australia, the skipper wants to turn out for NSW in the final from March 25-29 as the state chases its first Shield title since 2007-08.

Manuka Oval is tipped to be the leading contender marginally in front of Bankstown Oval as the host venue if NSW finishes on top of the table.

''I've got a few injuries from that second-last innings, so I'll spend some time recovering and trying to get my body right and hopefully I'll be able to play in the Shield final for NSW,'' Clarke said.

''But I'm in good hands.

''I've got a good physio here in Sydney and I think I'll be fine.''

The Blues are locked in a three-way battle with WA and SA, with all three states tied on 26 points going into the final round. Queensland is still in contention on 22 points.

Canberra product and NSW wicketkeeper-batsman Ryan Carters said having Clarke back for the final and Smith and Lyon for the match with WA would be a massive boost.

''To have the Australian captain in our ranks would definitely increase our chances,'' Carters said.

''Smith and Lyon have both had incredible summers for the Test team, they're both in great form, so naturally you'd expect that confidence to carry over into Shield cricket and pick up the regular state players around them as well.''

Marsh will be eager to make a statement after he was dropped for the third and final Test against South Africa.

After scoring 148 to help Australia to victory in the series opener, Marsh paid the price for ducks in both innings of the second Test.

Marsh could come into the WA team for his younger brother Mitch, who is carrying a side strain.

''If WA have both Marsh brothers [Shaun and all-rounder Mitch] in the side they're always a tough team to dismiss,'' Carters said.

''Shaun especially coming off a Test century in South Africa will be a big challenge for our bowlers.''