Country was on tenterhooks earlier in the week as it awaited a follow-up to an appeal Southland had made after its game against North Otago.
Southland argued it should have been awarded outright points because North Otago fielded an ineligible player. But the appeal, which would have elevated Southland above Country in the southern zone standings, was discarded.
Otago Country coach Andy Sainsbury is positive about his side's chances and believes his team is well matched with North Otago.
"We're pretty well matched in strengths," he said.
"They have got a very good batting line-up and I think the team that bats the best will win."
Queenstown's Jarred Andrew has led the charge for the Country batsmen this season. He has scored 237 runs at an average of almost 40, and Sainsbury believes he will be a key figure.
"Jarred's having a great season so far. At No4 he's been our standout batsman. And Fraser Wilson scored a hundred earlier in the season against Southland, so he's another key player."
Country captain Brendan Domigan will be another key performer. He took eight for 38 against Mid Canterbury last weekend, and has picked up 19 wickets at an average of 12.85 in just four matches this season. He also averages 28 with the bat.
Queenstown left-arm bowler Sean Windle has been added to the side after the unavailability of Sam Blakey and Russell Nevill, both having been key players in Otago Country's bowling attack.
Otago Country has not held the Hawke Cup since 1996 and, if successful this weekend, will have to fend off challenges from the winning sides of the other three New Zealand zones to keep the trophy for the winter.
