Top season tipped

The bats are out of the bags, the diamonds are marked and all is set for another softball season.
Cross Country Rentals Giants pitcher Richard Clarke is rubbing his hands in anticipation of another successful season ahead.
Clarke sees the pre-season encounter against Miramar at South Park on Saturday, with games starting at midday and 2pm, as a precursor of good things to come.
"We've set definite goals for this season," Clarke said. "We want to win the Hutt Valley competition and Inter City competition. We finished third last season in the Hutt Valley and in the top four of the Inter City. We're looking to do better this time."
Clarke says the club's chances have been heightened by the strength of the squad fronting up.
"The bulk of the players are back. We've lost three from last season but have gained five others. It's a large squad and there will be real competition for spots. Not a bad situation to be in really. I'm very optimistic."
Corie Karaitiana has returned and will captain the team. Former Black Sox first base and designated hitter Malcolm Namana also returns after a season away.
"We've got this Canadian fella on the way as well, Will Fehrman from Ontario, who plays middle infielder, but he's not likely to arrive until late October or early November."
Newcomers include an American and another Canadian who have just moved to Masterton.
Add in regulars Justin Karaitiana, Blair Thompson, the three Shannahan brothers - Ryan, Nathan and Ashton - Clarke himself, Danny Brown and Jordan Waitere, together with Campbell Gaunt, who has just returned from Australia with the New Zealand under-19s, and the 14-man squad is looking in great shape.
Giants will compete in the Kapiti Classic next Saturday before the competitive season starts on October 16.