Softball: Bonus for NZ women

The national women's softball team are to make a flying visit to Sydney next month as part of their preparation for the Olympic Games.

The unexpected invitation to play Australia comes after world and Olympic champions the United States turned down the chance to play the Australians in a five-game series.

"It's a bonus," coach Mike Walsh said.

"It gives us more opportunity for international competition against a top team. The more we play the better we are going to get."

Australia are ranked No 2 in the world.

The trip to Sydney will come just a week after the side return from playing in a San Diego tournament involving the United States, Canada and Australia.

Of the 15 players who will be playing at that tournament, only Zavana Aranga and Kylee Stevens are unavailable for Sydney.

They will be replaced by former internationals Katie Hetherington and Angela Moreton.

The team leave for Sydney on September 23.

New Zealand: Ruta Lealamanua (Wellington), Cindy Potae, Upu Lote, Leslie Moore (Hutt Valley), Jackie Smith, Katie Hetherington, Fiona Timu (Auckland), Suzy Trueman, Helen Townsend, Lisa Kersten, Kim Dermott, Melanie Hulme, Jaye Bailey, Angela Moreton (Canterbury), Rachel Newton (Southland). - NZPA