Softball: Youngsters will get chance to shine

By JULIE ASH

A tour of opportunity is how Black Sox coach Don Tricker describes his side's three-week trip to North America in July.

Tricker has named a squad of 17 for the tour of Canada, which includes new caps Wellington pitchers David Gollan and Frank Pointon, and Canterbury infielder Darren Davies.

Several leading players were unavailable, either because of commitments to work or to their North American clubs.

Tricker says because of that it will provide a great opportunity for the new players.

"We have a lot of younger guys that haven't played many games for the Black Sox. This is their chance to step out of the shadows of some of the more experienced players so we can see what value they bring to the side.

"One of the reasons we won the World Series in South Africa in 2000 was the depth of players we had, and we hope to have a number of players to chose from again."

The tour of Canada will involve around 30 games, including tournaments, against top North American club sides.

"It will be tough," Tricker said. "Most of the teams we play against will be the best sides in North America, and their sides will be full of international players."

In the absence of Jarrad Martin, his cousin Bevan Martin will captain the side.

Veteran Auckland infielder Dion Nukunuku is back for the first time since the World Series celebration tour 18 months ago, and Auckland outfielder Taifau Matai returns from injury. Kurt Allan, also from Auckland, has been named in the side after being called in midway through the series against Japan to replace the injured Stacy McLean.

Canterbury's Daniel Milne has also been recalled.

Black Sox team:

Pitchers: Michael Gaiger (Auckland), Derrek Coleman (North Harbour), David Gollan (Wellington), Frankie Pointon (Wellington).

Catchers: Bevan Martin (capt, Wellington), Aaron Neemia (Wellington).

Infield: Darren Davies (Canterbury), Clayton Willocks (North Harbour), Rhys Casley (Hutt Valley), Dion Nukunuku (Auckland), Roman Gabriel (Auckland), Gene Lutton (Wellington).

Outfield: Blair Murphy (Canterbury), Fabian Makea (Wellington), Daniel Milne (Canterbury), Taifau Matai (Auckland), Kurt Allan (Auckland).