The Black Sox softballers are about to get a gauge on how ready they are to defend their world title later this year.
The world number one's are set to host two of the other top four teams at this weekend’s Challenge Cup in Albany.
New Zealand expect to be pushed hard by rivals Australia and Japan, but they will also be taking on some familiar faces, with a New Zealand B team set to compete in the competition as well.
"Japan and Australia they won't know what our team is about, they'll know a few of our players and a few tendencies that our players have," said Black Sox skipper Nathan Nukunuku.
"But they won't know us as in depth as our Black Sox B side."
It's a perfect way to ramp up the competition for spots at the World Championships, four month from now in the Czech Republic.
Black Sox coach Mark Sorenson therefore expects plenty of fireworks when the two Kiwi sides meet.
"I expect there to be some spark in the games with us and the B team," said Sorenson.
"A little bit of old bull, young bull. The young guy's are going to want to have a crack and I certainly want them to not sit back and be in awe."
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