The New Zealand women's under-19 softball side found the step up to the senior ranks a daunting assignment in Sydney yesterday, losing their opening match at the Australian Cup 11-0 to tournament favourites Arcliffe Scots.
New Zealand, who whitewashed their Australian counterparts 3-0 in a test series this week, were outclassed
by a slick senior outfit at the Blacktown Olympic Centre. New Zealand coach Nardi Leonard said the Australian Cup would be the toughest competition her team had faced in their fledgling careers.
"It gives them a benchmark - they know what is possible if they can put in a bit of time and effort."
New Zealand play the Canberra Cardinals, Perth Thunder and the Australian under-19 side in an imposing triple-header tomorrow.
Azania Fusimalohi has been ruled out of the remainder of the tournament after breaking her finger during the test series.
