Softball: Casley gets the call for Japan matches

A barbecue to farewell a family member ended up as a celebration when Rhys Casley learned he had been selected in the national team for next month's series against world No 2 Japan.

Casley, the only new cap in the team, was at his nephew's farewell when he learned he had been chosen.

The 23-year-old Hutt Valley infielder had given himself a slim chance of making the team for this series - he had been looking more towards the tour to North America later in the year.

"I had my sights set on that one and anything else was going to be a bonus."

Coach Don Tricker made four changes from the side that beat Australia in October.

Gone are pitchers Derrek Coleman (North Harbour) and Vincent Swanwick (Wellington), Hutt Valley catcher Lance Abbot and Canterbury outfielder Gareth Cook.

Catchers Bevan Martin and pitchers Michael Gaiger and Paul Algar have been recalled after being unavailable for the series against Australia.

Algar, who is based in the US, and Martin were members of the World Series-winning team two years ago.

Also named in the side is Wellington pitcher Marty Grant, who returned to the game at the weekend after injury.

nteThe first test will be played in Nelson on February 21, with the second at Hutt Valley the next day, then games in Auckland.

New Zealand: Marty Grant, Bevan Martin, Jarrad Martin (capt), Gene Lutton, Thomas Makea, Fabian Makea, Stacey McLean (Wellington), Rhys Casley, Paul Algar, Michael Gaiger (Hutt Valley), Patrick Shannon, Donny Hale, Nathan Nukunuku, Roman Gabriel (Auckland), Brad Rona, Clayton Willocks (North Harbour), Blair Murphy (Canterbury).

- NZPA