Softball: New face for Australian tour

There is one new face in the New Zealand women's softball side to tour Australia this month - Hutt Valley infielder Kayo Marui.

The Japanese player has played club softball in Hutt Valley for several years and now has New Zealand residency.

The other feature of the team is the recall of Counties Manukau pitcher Michelle Kingi, Hutt Valley outfielder Melisa Upu and Canterbury players Lisa Kersten and Melanie Hulme.

The White Sox will tour Australia from March 24 -31, playing in the Grand Prix Series against top state sides before taking on Japan and Australia in an international series.

Pitchers: Michelle Kingi (Counties Manukau), Jessica Hau (Hutt Valley), Lisa Such (Wellington).

Catchers: Cindy Potae (Hutt Valley), Nic Pouaka-Grego (Canterbury).

Infield: Fiona Timu, captain (Auckland), Char Pouaka (Canterbury), Kayo Marui (Hutt Valley), Lisa Kersten (Canterbury), Upu Lote (Wellington).

Outfield: Jackie Smith (North Harbour), Api Stone O'Kane (Wellington), Kalala Faalogo (Auckland), Melisa Upu (Hutt Valley), Melanie Hulme (Canterbury).

Utilities: Maleme Williams (Hutt Valley), Zavana Aranga (Hutt Valley).