Softball: Auckland teen chosen in White Sox squad

Auckland teenager Carina Hale is one of two newcomers named in the New Zealand women's squad for the Olympic qualifying series in Australia next month.

Hale is one of four pitchers chosen - the others being Auckland's Michelle Kingi, Sheree Cartwright of Canterbury and Hutt Valley's Lisa Rhind.

However, with top pitcher Ali Arnold not securing a release from her United States college for the series, the pitching lineup looks the weakest area of the team.

"While they may not necessarily dominate the opposition, especially Australia, all we'll be asking them to do is stick to the game plan," said national coach Mike Walsh.

Walsh liked what he saw of Hale in the Junior White Sox and believes she can carry on that strong form in the senior international game.

The other new face is Hawkes Bay infielder Angela Stubbs.

Auckland infielder Fiona Timu captains the 17-strong squad, and she leads a core of experienced performers, such as Jackie Smith, Melisa Upu and Zavana Aranga.



The qualifier is in Sydney from March 21-23, and the White Sox will play Australia and Korea for one Asia/Oceania spot. The White Sox warm up for their Australian campaign with a series against an International All Stars selection in Auckland from March 14-16.

Olympic squad:

Pitchers: Michelle Kingi (Auckland), Sheree Cartwright (Canterbury), Lisa Rhind (Hutt Valley), Carina Hale (Auckland).

Catchers: Cindy Potae (Hutt Valley), Nic Pouaka (Canterbury).

Infield: Fiona Timu (capt, Auckland), Angela Stubbs (Hawkes Bay), Upu Lote (Wellington), Rhonda Hira (Canterbury), Char Pouaka (Canterbury).

Outfield: Jackie Smith (Auckland), Kalala Faalogo (Auckland), Melisa Upu (Hutt Valley), Melanie Hulme (Canterbury), Zavana Aranga (Hutt Valley).

Utility: Togi Lote (Wellington).