New coach Vaughn Johnson has named a team featuring England pace bowler Steven Finn, former Black Cap Ian Butler, last season's leading wicket-taker Neil Wagner and experienced campaigner James McMillan.
Whether all four make the playing XI will depend on the conditions, but it is an exciting attack with pace in spades.
Finn is capable of 150kmh snorting and snarling deliveries.
Butler used to get close to that kind of pace before a back injury, but still bowls a heavy ball. McMillan shortened his run up a few years ago to reduce his susceptibility to injuries but is a shoulder bowler and still generates plenty of heat.
Wagner is not as brisk as the other three but his ability to swing the ball poses a huge threat.
Experienced medium pacer Warren McSkimming was not considered. He is carrying a knee injury.
"He is still a couple of weeks away," Johnson said.
"He was going to have a bowl [yesterday] until the weather packed up and is still working on his recovery."
Spinner Mark Craig is also carrying a niggle and was unavailable for selection.
Canterbury will be missing bowlers Richard Sherlock and Matt Henry. Sherlock has had some problems with his ankle and will be seeing a specialist this week, while Henry's bowling loads are being monitored.
Otago v Canterbury
The teams
Otago: Aaron Redmond (captain), Craig Cumming, Michael Bracewell, Neil Broom, Sam Wells, Nathan McCullum, Derek de Boorder, Neil Wagner, Nick Beard, Steven Finn, James McMillan, Ian Butler.
Canterbury: Peter Fulton (captain), Tom Latham, George Worker, Rob Nicol, Shanan Stewart, Henry Nicholls, Andrew Ellis, Todd Astle, Ryan McCone, Willie Lonsdale, Struan George, Logan Van Beek.
