Warriors coach Rivash Gobind is predictably anticipating a tough challenge against the Titans, come this week’s key 4-Day Franchise Series fixture at SuperSport Park in Centurion.

The Warriors were runners-up to the champion Titans in last season’s competition – and lost to the Lions last week.

The reigning champions have named a strong squad, including Proteas batsmen Dean Elgar and Aiden Markram – and all-rounder Chris Morris. The Warriors, meanwhile, have welcomed the return of batsman Colin Ackermann and spinner Simon Harmer.

Harmer and Ackermann, who have signed Kolpak contracts and are not available to the Proteas, recently returned from stints in the United Kingdom.

‘The Titans have a lot of players that play international cricket and county cricket, so they’re used to moving from format to format, so it won’t be an issue’ I always say it’s a massive honour and privilege to test ourselves against a quality franchise like theirs and this will be no different,’ said Gobind.

‘They’re a championship side that have done it year in and year out, so we’re looking forward to it and it’s a great measuring stick to see where we are as a team so early in the season.’

Gobind looked forward to seamer Anrich Nortje and batsman Sinethemba Qeshile building on impressive performances against the Lions.

‘The way Nortje bowled was extremely encouraging on a challenging surface. With the bat, Qeshile has now got three half-tons in a row and has made a really bright start to his career. For a 19-year-old kid, it’s unbelievable and we’re really happy about his growth so far.’