Softball: White Sox find out what makes 'world-class' play

SYDNEY - The realities of international softball hit home when the New Zealand women's team were thrashed 11-0 by Australia at the five-nation pre-Olympic tournament in Sydney yesterday.

After a win over Canada and a narrow loss to China on Tuesday, the White Sox entered yesterday's game against the unbeaten tournament favourites with some confidence, but found themselves on the back foot immediately.

The world-class Australian batting lineup scored a run in the first inning, three each in the second and third and four in the fourth to shock pitchers Ruta Lealamanua and backup Margaret Edwards.

New Zealand are to play two matches today, against Japan in the afternoon and Canada in the evening.

- NZPA