The New Zealand U23 Major Sox men's softball team has finally departed for Parana, Argentina, ahead of the much-awaited WBSC U-23 Men's Softball World Cup. The team embarked on a long journey with a 40-hour flight via Dubai, after enduring a frustrating wait due to the event's cancellation in October.

Before their departure, the team had a chance to prepare by taking on the Junior Black Sox in scrimmage matches and playing against a North Harbour selection.

The WBSC U-23 Men's Softball World Cup is set to take place at Nafaldo Cargnel Stadium in Parana, Argentina, from 15-23 April 2023. This is the first-ever edition of the tournament, with the next event scheduled for 2026.

Twelve national teams will be participating in the competition, with Argentina, Australia, Czechia, Mexico, Singapore, and South Africa in Group A, and Canada, Israel, Japan, New Zealand, Venezuela, and the WBSC Team* in Group B.

Australia, spearheaded by senior men's pitcher and world champion Jack Besgrove, is expected to be a strong contender for the title, making them one of the favourites in the tournament. 

Interestingly, this tournament will also mark the last appearance of the Mizuno M150 Softballs, as they will be replaced by the more sustainable model M170 starting with the WBSC Women's Softball World Cup Group Stage later this year. 

Another notable aspect of the tournament is the participation of the Guatemalan athletes. Due to the suspension of the National Olympic Committee of Guatemala by the International Olympic Committee, the Guatemalan athletes are unable to represent their country or compete under its flag and name at international sports events. However, in order to respect the athletes' rights to participate, they will be competing at the WBSC U-23 Men's Softball World Cup under the WBSC flag, showcasing the spirit of inclusivity and sportsmanship.

The U23 New Zealand Men’s Team to compete at the WBSC U-23 Men’s Softball World Cup in Argentina.Brock Attewell, Oscar Clark, Huw Davies, Max Earley, Ethan Shannon, Floyd Nola, Taine Slaughter, Xaviar Herrick, Brock Evans, (Auckland), Tane Mumu (Hutt Halley), Damon Creasy Tobias Makisi, Te Kirika Cooper-Nicola, (Wellington), Liam Potts, Josh Lubiejewski, Caleb Stewart (Canterbury).

Steve Deans (Head Coach), Margaret Marsh (Manager), Assistant Coach (Fergus McAlpine), Carolyn McQueen (Scorer)

The Major Sox with a last hit out at Rosedale Park last weekend. 

KEY INFORMATION 

U-23 WBSC Website

Live streaming can be viewed on the WBSC OTT Platform GameTime.
 

All the best team!! #WeTheBench