Otago ended a 20-year drought last summer when it beat Auckland by seven wickets in the final of the one-day tournament, and it begins its campaign to defend the silverware against Canterbury in Christchurch tomorrow.
The squad has been strengthened with the return of opener Aaron Redmond, who was unwanted for the test series against the West Indies, and the arrival of hard-hitting English all-rounder Dimitri Mascarenhas.
Mascarenhas' power hitting and ability to get through overs cheaply will bolster the defending champion's chances of repeat success.
His inclusion has forced the selectors to make a tough call, with Mat Harvie missing selection.
Harvie is Otago's second-leading wicket-taker, with 10 scalps at an average of 32.90.
He makes way for Neil Wagner, who has returned after attending his brother's wedding in South Africa.
Veteran medium-pacer Warren McSkimming will share the new-ball duties with Wagner.
Fast bowler James McMillan strained a quadriceps muscle against Auckland last week and was not considered.
"At this stage we see Mat as a genuine opening bowler and, with Neil and Warren doing that role, unfortunately we couldn't find a spot for him," Otago coach Mike Hesson said.
Ten of the 12 Otago players are able to bowl and the side also bats a long way down, with Wagner likely to bat at No 11 should Craig Smith carry the drinks.
"We have a well-balanced side.
''We've got a lot of multi-talented cricketers and we are certainly looking forward to getting back into the State Shield," Hesson said.
Coming in as defending champion is new to Otago, but Hesson said there was no more pressure than normal.
"It's a new position for us to be in but it's a great position also.
We want to be a team that sets the standard and that is what we'll look to do again this year."
At the top of the order Otago has a solid look with discarded New Zealand openers Cumming and Redmond setting a platform.
Shaun Haig may also open, with Cumming possibly dropping down to No 4.
Gritty left-hander Greg Todd comes in at first drop, with the in-form Neil Broom rounding out a talented top four.
Mascarenhas and Nathan McCullum form a formidable middle order, and wicketkeeper Derek de Boorder has also shown he is handy with the blade.
Meanwhile, Canterbury has called in some heavyweights, with Indian Cricket League duo fast bowler Shane Bond and veteran all-rounder Chris Harris suiting up.
East Christchurch-Shirley's Ryan Burson and Marist-Harewood's Carl Frauenstein come into the one-day side, and the only other change to the side is the return of Peter Fulton from national duties, with Corey Anderson (injured) ruled out.
