Softball: Catcher's call-up offers quick chance to shine

New Black Sox catcher Lyndon Andrew. Picture / Geoff Dale

Auckland catcher Lyndon Andrew could find himself in a leading role in next month's Pacific Cup series now that he has finally broken into the Black Sox.

Andrew is one of four newcomers named in the 20-strong New Zealand side to take on Japan, Australia, Samoa and Argentina in next month's series at Rotorua.

Thirteen players from last year's world conquering side have been retained and three past internationals are recalled.

With legendary Black Sox catcher Mark Sorenson now retired and back-up Bevan Martin out with a calf injury, Andrew, 34, was one of two catchers named in the squad.

The other, Patrick Shannon, whose batting prowess came to the fore in last year's world championships, is recovering from wrist surgery and may struggle behind the plate, which could throw Andrew into the starting line-up.

Andrew has played senior softball for Auckland for 17 years. His biggest achievement was making a New Zealand training squad four years ago.

"It is hard to break through when you have Mark Sorenson there," he said.

"I think they have included me because of my experience.

"I have been around a long time, obviously, and catching is not one of those positions you pick up overnight."

Other newcomers to the team are young Auckland utility player Jonathan Munden and Hutt Valley pitcher Chris Eden-Huria.

Black Sox coach Eddie Kohlhase said maintaining consistency in the team was important, but it was also necessary to develop a few new players.

"There are four brand new caps and it is great for them to be coming into such an established team, a winning established team," he said.

Wellington players Fabien Makea and Stephen Ratu and Hutt Valley's Rhys Casley have been recalled to the Black Sox.

The three were "good enough to make any other international team in the world but they have come up against tough opposition here in New Zealand", said Kohlhase.

Infielder Nathan Nukunuku is named as vice-captain, to foster leaders in the team.

"Nathan's selection as vice-captain is a coming of age for him," said Kohlhase.

"He has been around the Black Sox since 2000 and his form and ability to lead at the 2004 world champs was inspirational."

The Black Sox squad includes 20 members but only 17 can be named for each game.

The side will assemble in Wellington on January 8 for a two-day camp as part of the buildup to the Evodrive-sponsored series, which starts on February 3. 

Black Sox

Pitchers: Marty Grant (Wellington), Michael Gaiger (Auckland), Thomas Cameron (Auckland), Tane Richardson (Hutt Valley).

Catchers: Lyndon Andrew (Auckland), Patrick Shannon (Auckland).

Infield: Jarrad Martin, captain (Wellington), Dion Nukunuku (Auckland), Brad Rona (North Harbour), Nathan Nukunuku, vice-captain (Auckland), Roman Gabriel (Auckland).

Outfielders: Stacy McLean (Wellington), Thomas Makea (Wellington), Taifau Matai (Auckland), Donny Hale (Auckland), Fabian Makea (Wellington) Chris Eden-Huria (Wellington).

Utilities: Steven Ratu (Wellington), Jonathan Munden (Auckland), Rhys Casley (Hutt Valley).