TENNIS Zimbabwe vice-president, Regis Bhunu, believes the upcoming Twenty Third Century Systems International Tennis Federation Futures tournament provides an opportunity for local players to be exposed to a higher level of competition.

The futures tournament is catering for men and is scheduled to run from Saturday to December 1 at Harare Sports Club and players from across the globe are expected to grace the event.

Bhunu said although the week-long tournament might prove to be a difficult one for local players, it's an opportunity for them to improve their skills as they get to play some of the world's best players.

"Definitely our local players will find the tournament tough but it will be a good experience, that's the only way we can improve. In tennis you get better by playing more tournaments. It gives our players the opportunity to get points and play in the main draw instead of playing qualifiers when they go for tournaments," said Bhunu.

Zimbabwe's top player, Takanyi Garanganga, automatically qualified for the main draw due to his ranking while Mark Fynn also made it into the main draw after withdrawals by other players.