Softball: Black Sox pitcher struggling to shake off injury

11.30am


Michael Gaiger is not giving up on pitching for the Black Sox at the upcoming World Series in Christchurch.

Gaiger is still struggling with a groin strain just two days out from the start of the championships on Thursday.

He was put through a light routine on Monday but has not been given the all-clear to throw full tilt.

Black Sox coach Don Tricker says the signs are relatively encouraging and he is hoping the next 48 hours will see him right.

Tricker says Gaiger is not back pitching in game situations, but at least in Monday's inter-squad game he was put through his paces on the sidelines.

A final decision on Gaiger's availability will be made tomorrow.

The Black Sox have a light run in Christchurch today to wind up preparations for the defence of their title.

Organisers are also putting their final touches together for the event.

Chief organiser Cheryl Kemp says teams are now arriving and being settled into their accommodation at Canterbury University.

She says it will be a busy time preparing the park over next three days.

She says corporate box areas are being spruced up and signage is going on display.

And the volunteers are getting the thumbs up for their early efforts.

Kemp says softball fans from all over the country have come out of the shadows.

Most teams have now arrived including the United States who were practising on Monday within three hours of touchdown.

New Zealand plays Samoa in the opening match of the World Series on Thursday evening.


- Newstalk ZB