South Canterbury wrapped up the zone with 40 points last year, followed by Otago Country (28), North Otago (28), Southland (8) and Mid Canterbury (8).
South Canterbury — who start the season with a bye — were unsuccessful in their challenge for the Cup against Taranaki, who still hold the silverware.
But that is all put to bed as the 2025-26 season begins tomorrow.
Otago Country host North Otago first up at Molyneux Park, which is always a big battle between the two teams.
Cameron Jackson played a starring role for Otago Country, smacking 105 off 88 balls — after Country had been 92 for six — to help them to a first-innings win over North Otago last season.
North Otago, who are again co-coached by Jordan Horrell and Glynn Cameron, have a good blend of experience and rising cricketers.
Jeremy Smith, who plays for North East Valley in Dunedin, will again captain North Otago, and Otago Volts batter Llew Johnson, who grew up in Oamaru, is expected to suit up for his home side this weekend.
All-rounder Stephan Grobler, who was sensational for North Otago last season, is in line for his 50th Hawke Cup appearance.
Southland makes the longest trip in the zone to Ashburton to meet Mid Canterbury this weekend.
Sithum Niluminder was a standout with the ball for Southland last season, collecting 22 wickets.
He has been making the trip to Dunedin to play for Albion, where he took seven for 18 — including three wickets from four balls — against University-Grange last month.
Captain Jason Osborne adds plenty of experience, and Green Island cricketer Jed Mockford will again link up with Southland.
Zone four takes a lengthy break for the Christmas period, resuming on January 17 with North Otago playing South Canterbury.
