Thailand begin their 2023 Asian Women's Volleyball Championship campaign today when they take on Australia in the opening Pool A match in Nakhon Ratchasima.
The match at Korat Chatchai Hall starts at 6pm and will be shown live on PPTV HD. A total of 14 teams are taking part in this year's tournament which will also be held at MCC Hall.
World No.16 Thailand, who captured the Asian title twice in 2009 and 2013, will play Mongolia in the second match on Friday, also at 6pm.
Two-time defending champions Japan will kick-start their bid for the third straight title today against Iran.
In Pool C, South Korea play Vietnam while Taiwan take on Uzbekistan.
In Pool D, 13-time Asian champions China face Hong Kong and Kazakhstan play Philippines.
The top two teams from each group will advance to the second round which features two pools of four teams.
At the end of the round-robin second stage, the two top teams will qualify for the semi-finals while the third and fourth-placed teams will contest in the classification round for fifth-eighth spots.
Outside hitter Chatchu-On Moksri said the team are aiming to win their third Asian crown.
"We are looking to win the third Asian title. It will be a great challenge for all the players but we will give it a go and do our best," she said.
Pimpichaya Kokram echoed her teammate's sentiments.
"I think this is our best chance to win our third Asian title. This tournament will be our preparation for the Olympic qualifiers which begin next month."
The Thai team comprise Piyanut Pannoy, Supattra Pairoj, Pornpun Guedpard, Sirima Manakij, Thatdao Nuekjang, Charasporn Bandasak, Wimonrat Thanapan, Hattaya Bamrungsuk, Chatchu-On, Ajcharaporn Kongyot, Wipawee Srithong, Sasipaporn Janthawisut, Thanacha Sooksod and Pimpichaya.