The University of Hawai'i softball team will take a test run with today's exhibition against Chaminade at Iolani School.

"Our players are ready to face somebody else," said UH coach Bob Coolen, whose team opened training camp three weeks ago. The Rainbow Wahine's season opens Feb. 9.

Today's format calls for the teams to start play at 3:30 p.m. and compete until sunset. Coolen estimated the scrimmage will last at least nine innings.

Justine Smethurst, a freshman right-hander from Australia, will pitch first, followed by freshman Courtney Baughman, sophomore Jessica Morton, sophomore Kate Robinson and senior Paula Blanning. Coolen said the pace of the game — not a pitch count — will determine how long Smethurst and Baughman will be used.

Coolen said he believes he has found the successors to last year's top pitchers, Melissa Coogan and Shannon Tabion. Smethurst, who competed in Australia's open trials this month, is "game ready," Coolen said.

Smethurst's riser has been clocked at 68 mph, which is the equivalent of a baseball thrown in the high 90s.

Third baseman Clare Warwick, a freshman from Australia, has emerged as the leadoff hitter.

"She's very aggressive, and she has a good eye," Coolen said. "She's not afraid to take the extra base." Warwick was a member of the 19-under team that was ranked third in Australia. She also will serve as backup to catcher Kristi Yoshizawa.

Shortstop Valana Manuma, who was considered for the leadoff spot, now will bat second. Manuma is replacing Ashley Ruff, who opted to forgo her senior season to focus on school work.

Kamehameha Schools' starting outfield in 2004 has been reunited. Brandi Peiler, who transferred from Hawai'i Pacific University in August, will start in left field. Kaulana Gould will open in center, and Robinson is platooning in right field.

Because of UH's crowded outfield situation last year, Peiler opted to sign with HPU. She batted .368 with eight home runs and .647 slugging percentage. She also pitched, going 11-1 with a 1.66 earned-run average. She was named PacWest Freshman of the Year.

Peiler requested — and received — a scholarship release from HPU last summer. She then contacted Coolen.

Peiler's arrival eased the loss of Tracie Uchima, who graduated last year, and Tara Harbert, who transferred to Colorado State.

"This is a good situation for her, and it's a good situation for us," Coolen said.

The other starters are Alana Power at second and Tyleen Tausaga at first.

Reach Stephen Tsai at stsai@honoluluadvertiser.com.