Whether short-handed or with a full roster, Kansas University’s softball team is facing a rugged stretch in its schedule.

“We have a tough road ahead,” KU coach Tracy Bunge said. “We don’t have any gimmes.”

Kansas has to play defending Big 12 champion Oklahoma today and Sunday in Norman, then travel to Nebraska, another league powerhouse, for a twinbill next Wednesday.

KU has dropped two of its last three with five players, including four starters, under suspension for violating team rules. Bunge said the five would make the trip to OU, but she hasn’t decided if they’ll be allowed to play.

Three of the five are starting infielders  third baseman Megan Urquhart, shortstop Courtney Wright and first baseman Lindsey Weinstein. Also suspended were catcher Dani May, a sophomore from Lawrence, and utility player Melanie Wallach.