Softball: Poneke Kilbirnie set to blitz field

Wellington powerhouse Poneke Kilbirnie are the favourites to take out the national men's open club championships which start at North Harbour's Rosedale Park today.

The PK side, who won the Dean Schick Memorial tournament at the same venue last month, include four Black Sox who starred during the series against Japan - pitcher Marty Grant, brothers Fabian and Thomas Makea, and New Zealand captain Jarrad Martin.

Fourteen teams will contest the title, with PK's toughest competition likely to come from Mt Albert Ramblers, who have international Michael Gaiger on the mound, and Auckland Marist, who also boast several internationals, including the player of the series against Japan, Patrick Shannon.

Christchurch United should also prove competitive with veteran Greg Newton backed up by rising Australian star Matt White, while Miramar will be spearheaded by the fast-improving David Gollan, who has enjoyed a good season in the Wellington/Hutt Valley inter-city competition.

Hosts Northcote rate a chance with internationals Derrek Coleman, Brad Rona and Clayton Willocks in the ranks.

Competing teams:

Northcote, Marist (Auckland), Mt Albert Ramblers, Waitakere Bears, Hutt City United, Cardinals (Hutt Valley), Hutt Valley Marist, Giants (Wairarapa), Poneke Kilbirnie, Miramar, Johnsonville, St George (Wellington), Christchurch United and Papatoetoe.