Softball: Black Sox set pace in Japan

The Black Sox displayed their world softball championship-winning class in Japan overnight, opening the Pacific Series with two wins.

In two classy displays the Black Sox opened their account in Shendai with a 7-0 win over Japan in five innings, followed by a 11-0 victory over Samoa.

Hutt Valley pitcher Jeremy Manley led the charge against the Japanese, facing 16 batters for 11 strike outs while giving up no hits.

Decisive with the bat were Travis Wilson who picked up two hits along with Jarrad Martin, Nathan Nukunuku and Rhys Casley who all who all smashed home runs.

New Zealand, three times world champions, remain the only unbeaten team after the first day.

Today they face Australia and Japan.

- NZPA