MONTPELLIER (EuroLeague Women) - As the curtain is raised on the EuroLeague Women Qualifiers, there is a big responsibility on the shoulders of Anael Lardy after assuming the captaincy at BLMA.

The French side are determined to avoid a setback when they play at Hungarian rookies KSC Szekszard on Tuesday night in the first leg of the all-important Qualifiers.

Lardy is keen to get off on a winning note in her new role, after taking the baton from the long-serving and highly-respected Gaelle Skrela.

She stated: "BLMA are my club and to be captain is something special for me, since BLMA have made the most of me during my career.

"Above all, I want everyone to feel comfortable in the club, in order for them to feel comfortable on the court.

"EuroLeague Women remains a very high-level competition and it allows us to confront the best players in the world. It also allows us to play every three days and thus maintain a good rhythm.

"For me, it is essential to qualify," she added.

BLMA will rely on some very experienced players and will be favorites to progress behind the contributions of Fatimatou Sacko, Ewelina Kobryn and Giorgia Sottana.

But, as reigning Hungarian champions, KSC Szekszard will be confident as well. They will put their faith in their own top-level contributors such as Teja Oblak, Maja Erkic and Sara Krnjic as they look to make history.

The other Qualifiers match-up could also lead to a history chapter when Piestanske Cajky of Slovak Republic hope to make it to their first-ever Regular Season.

They will be eager to get off to a winning opening at home to CCC Polkowice on the first leg.

Their hopes will be carried mainly by Asia Boyd and Jenna Smith, with CCC Polkowice tipped to avoid an upset because of the expertise of new head coach George Dikeoulakos and a stacked roster that includes Artemis Spanou, Elina Dikeoulakou, Bria Holmes and Alysha Clark.

FIBA