Softball: White Sox welcome back pinch-hitter

White Sox coach Mike Walsh has recalled Hutt Valley utility player Maleme Williams to the New Zealand women's team for next month's tri-series against Japan and a World All Stars team.

After a nine-year absence Williams is one of several recalled players named in the squad of 17 for the series in Christchurch from January 14-16.

Williams, who hasn't played for the White Sox since the 1995-96 season, won recall following impressive form in the batters box.

"At the moment we see Maleme more as a designated player," Walsh said.

"We have been impressed with her power hitting which she has continued this season. She is developing into an exceptional hitter and we are looking forward to working with her to extend her skills even more."

Also recalled to the side were experienced internationals Auckland's Jackie Smith and Canterbury's Nic Pouaka-Grego. Both were unavailable for the White Sox tour of Canada in June as Smith had just had a baby and Pouaka-Grego was expecting her first child.

The pitching lineup has a younger look to it with Hutt Valley teenager Jessica Hau, Wellington's Lisa Such and Auckland's Amanda Preston. Southland pitcher Sheree Cartwright will add valuable experience.

"We are looking to play attractive softball and develop collectively and the results will come from that.

"Most of the team have been there before so I am hoping they will gel together well," Walsh said.

The White Sox assemble in Christchurch on January 12.

Walsh said the opportunity to play at international level was critical for the development of softball here and the build-up towards the 2006 world championships.

"We need to measure ourselves against offshore competition, it is always difficult to get teams to New Zealand and this is a good measure to see where we are at," Walsh said.

"By competing at the top level we will be able to determine how far we have come and where we need to go to be competitive in 2006."

White Sox Pitchers:

Jessica Hau (Hutt Valley), Amanda Preston (Auckland), Lisa Such (Wellington), Sheree Cartwright (Southland).

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

Infield: Fiona Timu (Auckland), Char Pouaka (Canterbury), Talilotu Tonu'u (Wellington), Jackie Smith (North Harbour), Upu Lote (Wellington).

Outfield: Api Stone-O'Kane (Wellington), Kalala Faalogo (Auckland), Togi Lote (Wellington), Zavana Aranga (Hutt Valley).

Utilities: Maleme Williams (Hutt Valley).