LAKE Albert plans to put St Michaels in a spin as they set out to defend an impressive total of 257 at McPherson Oval on Saturday.

The Bulls will take to the field without captain Kurt Robertson, strike bowler Brett Davies and in-form all-rounder Jesse Hampton for the second day of the match.

All three would have contributed plenty of overs with the ball so the Bulls' depth will be tested as they search for their opening win of the season.

Robertson believes there is several Lake Albert players capable of stepping up.

"Jesse Uhr made his first grade debut last game and he comes in and will probably open the bowling with Adam Newcombe," Robertson said.

" Sean Gaynor will probably bowl first change.

"Then we've got three spinners.

"That deck was one of the worst decks I've ever seen in Wagga cricket, so I think it will take to spin.

"It spun a mile last week and I don't think it will be any different this week, so spin will be the go."

Nathan Brookes is Lake Albert's number one spin bowler.

He has already claimed eight wickets this season and Lake Albert expect him to add to that total on Saturday.

"I think Brooksey will stand up and show his maturity and experience," Robertson said.

"He will lead the attack, or that's what I'm hoping for.

"I'm pretty confident Matt Tom will take some wickets on that deck too."

St Michaels have fielded a new-look team this season and has just the one win from the opening four games.

The Saints get a chance to keep in touch with the top teams if they can pull off a successful chase.

Robertson said St Michaels coach Jordan Lawrence and captain James Elliott were the danger men for the Saints.

"Obviously Jordan Lawrence and James Elliott are two big wickets and I don't know much about their other guys," he said.

"On a slow pitch, 250-260 was a pretty score and that will take some chasing, even if we are down a couple of bowlers.

"Every wicket is important as the one before.

"We've struggled to take early wickets this season but something is due to go our way so if we can get an early wicket or two that will go a long way towards taking care of the rest."