MANILA (FIBA Basketball World Cup 2019 Asian Qualifiers) - Andray Blatche looked fine and ready to take on all comers as he resurfaced in Manila ahead of the second Asian Qualifiers window.

"Physically, I'm doing pretty good," he said as he participated in shooting drills at the Meralco Gym in Pasig City. "Gotten in better shape, and I'm trying to get used to shooting with that ball again. That's pretty much it, really."

Blatche averaged 9.5 points, 13.0 rebounds, 4. 0 assists, 2.0 steals and 4.0 blocks per game in the first window, where the Philippines triumphed over both Japan and Chinese Taipei to draw with Australia at the top of their group. Things will come to a head on 22 February at the Margaret Court Arena in Melbourne, however, as both Gilas Pilipinas and the Boomers are set to collide.

The 6ft 11in (2.10m) Blatche, who last plied his trade for the Xinjiang Flying Tigers in China, is aware of the tall task ahead of him and his teammates.

"It's gonna be a difficult game for us," he explained. "We have to play hard, use our speed, outside shooting, and, hopefully, everything turns out in our favor."

A win for the Philippines against the Australians will put the Filipinos in perfect shape to book a spot in the next round and will increase their chances of catching a ride to the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2019 in China. Blatche is expected to match up with the likes of Daniel Kickert, Matthew Hodgson and Angus Brandt in the middle, and though the former NBA veteran he have his work cut out for him, he remains optimistic.

"We got to work hard as a team - use our strengths and our quickness, and I feel like we have a very good chance," he said.

Blatche will join a group that is bannered by leading PBA rookie Kiefer Ravena and includes veterans Japeth Aguilar, Jayson Castro and Calvin Abueva, among others.

"It's good to watch Calvin and Kiefer come by and play again," he said. "I am super excited, and I can't wait."

After their crucial tussle with Australia, the Philippines host a vengeful Japanese quintet on 25 February at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.

FIBA