Estonian Meistriliiga club Tartu Ulikool Rock return to European competition on Thursday when they meet Jekaterinburg Jevraz in the FIBA Europe Cup first qualifying match.

Rock are looking to surprise Jevraz in the Northern Conference Group A match with their solid defence and quick attack.

But Rock captain Tarmo Kikerpill will miss the opening match with a thigh muscle strain.

He admits that even though Rock have played Jevraz three times before, they still feel like a completely new opponent.

Kikerpill added that Jevraz have been playing well so far this year compared to Rock and he doesn't believe they have much chance to beat the Russian Superleague team.

"But we can take it without stress, as no one really expects us to beat a club like that," he said.

Rock may also benefit from their opponents treating them lightly and taking the match too easy.

Rock's coach Tonu Lust said the team has to work hard in defence.

"Russian teams are very strong, but we still have to keep some hope to beat them," said Lust.

"Our first advantage is that the game is at home and it also helps that we have nothing to lose. They know little about our team."