Team Canada will begin their mission to defend their world championship title on July 7 when they open their play against South Africa at 7:30 p.m.

More than 80 games will be played at the Pepsi Softball Centre over the course of the Men’s World Softball Championship, which runs from July 7 to 16.

Preparations are well underway and event host committee chair George Arcand said the “diamonds look great.”

The final preparations will begin after the Dustball tournament.

There will be 17 teams from five continents battling it out for a spot in the double page playoff round.

In pool A are: Argentina, Australia, Canada, Dominican Republic, Hong Kong, India, South Africa and the United States.

In pool B are: Botswana, Czech Republic, Denmark, Great Britain, Indonesia, Japan, New Zealand, Turkey and Venezuela.

India and Turkey are making their world championship debuts.

The opening ceremonies on July 7 will feature a performance by Corb Lund and the Hurtin’ Albertans.