A Trans-Tasman invasion is going to present a hearty challenge to the ID18 hosts when the TAB Inter Dominion Trotting Championship makes its long-awaited return.

It’s perhaps a little ironic that a six-year-old gelding named Maori Law may provide the lead resistance to New Zealand’s might in the trotting ranks, confirmed with today’s release of nominations for the December trotting series.

Of the 88 nominees, 13 are New Zealand entrants, including many of the heavy hitters according to the TAB.com.au’s market.

New Zealand trained nominees Temporale, Lemond, Speeding Spur and Bordeaux are at a $15 clip or tighter in early markets, while fellow Kiwis Monbet, Enghien and Great Things Happen are notable for their absence.

CLICK HERE TO SEE THE NOMINEES FOR THE TAB INTER DOMINION TROT

Victoria’s turf will be defended by favourite Tornado Valley, a former New Zealander who’s only a somewhat recent addition to Andy Gath’s team, Bill Morgan’s impressive Maori Law and Brent Lilley’s Kyvalley Blur.

Lilley has entered eight starters from his Bolinda stable, with the notable absentee being veteran and million-dollar stakes winning Keystone Del.

But the absence of his all-time great will no doubt be offset by the presence of Kyvalley Blur, who’s been a level above in Victoria since July 21, winning four of five before an anticipated tilt at New Zealand’s Dominion on November 16.

That $300,000 trot may provide an important glimpse into the forthcoming Inter Dominion, with Kyvalley Blur eighth in its rankings. Of those who have nominated for ID18, Speeding Spur (second), Temporale (fifth) and Lemond (seventh) are ranked higher for the Addington Raceway Group 1.

The first ID18 rankings will be released at 10am on Wednesday, October 3, followed by the second on October 17, the third on October 31 and fourth and final on November 21.

TAB Inter Dominion heats will then be held on December 1 (Tabcorp Park Melton), December 4 (Ballarat) and December 8 (Cranbourne) before the December 15 Grand Finals at Tabcorp Park Melton.

For bookings and more details go to ID18.com.au