The Emeralds’ squad will be split into two teams – Australia Green and Australia White – to play the Japan All-Stars in three days of round robin matches starting Saturday morning at Strathfieldsaye’s Club Court.

Japan is the world’s No.1 ranked women’s team, with the “Bendigo Challenge” one of the key warm-up events for the World Cup in Florida in August.

The Emeralds have 39 hopefuls vieing for 20 spots in the World Cup squad.

“We’ve put together a squad that will challenge each other, compete at a high level and contains a good blend of youth and experience,” Wearne said.

“Over half the squad we have selected are 25 or under, with eight players under the age of 18.

“Those numbers are important for our program and show the depth that is coming through across the country.

“We have a number of veterans still pushing for selection and this will no doubt assist in creating a really competitive environment for overall World Cup team selection.

“The opportunity to come up against the best team in the world in Japan will serve as a perfect preparation for the World Cup.”

The Emeralds finished fifth at the 2016 World Cup, which included wins over baseball powerhouses Korea and the USA.

The Japan All-Stars arrived in Bendigo on Thursday, while the Australian Emeralds will hit town on Friday morning.

A civic reception for both teams will be held at Club Court from 10am Friday.

The “Bendigo Challenge” will feature eight games. Entry is free for spectators.

• Schedule for this weekend’s carnival:

Saturday – 9am: Australia Green v Japan. 11.30am: Japan v Australia White. 2pm: Australia Green v Australia White.

Sunday – 9am: Australia White v Japan. 11.30am: Japan v Australia Green. 2pm: Australia White v Australia Green.

Monday – 8.45am: Australia Green v Australia White. 10.30am – Winner of Australia Green/Australia White v Japan.