Just as it will on Monday, it began its 2017 tournament against eventual winner Geelong – and it did not go to plan.

Ballarat sent Geelong into bat and it proceeded to pile on 372 runs from its 50 overs.

Ballarat could only muster 192 in response.

This year’s captain Adam Eddy, who played in that match, said this week would see a much different side and one far better prepared to counter a rampant batting line-up.

Spin trio Tom Le Lievre, Harli Givvens and Will Rogers providing great variety to the attack.

“They just batted very very well,” Eddy said.

“We had lot of pace last year and the deck was pretty flat and the ground was short and quick which didn’t really help.

“It’ll (the spin options) break it up a lot more than what it did last year.”

Eddy said there was no doubt Geelong will be its toughest opponent for the week and the result of Monday’s clash at the Geelong Cricket Ground will set the tone for its campaign.

“It’ll definitely be the biggest test for the week.

“They’re a pretty good team, because they’re in Geelong they get their strongest team.

“If we can sneak a win there it’ll be a very good start.”

It comes as no surprise following last year’s performance, but Eddy said it was crucial to get on top of Geelong’s batting order and not let them settle.

The youthful Ballarat outfit will be tested from ball one when play gets underway at 10am.

“We’re a lot younger side this year.

“We’ll be looking to shake it up when we’re bowling to them. They’re strongest asset will be their batting, so we’ll have to change it up and not let them get too comfortable.”