The experienced quartet headline a side that includes exciting youngsters in Shyah Hale and Meeki Cooper-Nicola. The two Auckland teenagers will be attending their first WBSC sanctioned event at senior level, and join world cup campaign debutants Brooke Whiteman, Amy Begg, Nerissa McDowell, Otila Tavite, Tyla Morrison, Loran Parker, Emma Francis, and Erin Blackmore in an exciting new look White Sox side.

The group will compete in Group C at the WBSC World Cup – Group Stage qualifier alongside hosts Italy, Canada, Venezuela, Asia 1 qualifier (likely Olympic Champions Japan), and an appointed wildcard entry.

The tournament takes place in Castions di Strada and Buttrio, Italy July 22-26.

Sky Sport White Sox:

Loran Parker - AKL
Tyla Morrison - AKL
Tyneesha Houkamau – AKL
Brooke Whiteman - AKL
Meeki Cooper Nicola – AKL
Rebecca Bromhead (VC) - AKL
Katrina Nukunuku - AKL
Shyah Hale - AKL
Lara Andrews (C) - HV
Pallas Potter - HV
Erin Blackmore - HV
Otila Tavite - HV
Emma Francis - WLG
Amy Begg – CHC
Mikayla Werahiko – CHC
Nerissa McDowell – CHC

Hutt Valleys, Andrews will captain the side.


Donny Hale appointed as Sky Sport New Zealand White Sox coach

Hale, a three-time world champion with the Black Sox in 2000, 2004 and 2013 has been appointed as Head Coach of the Sky Sport New Zealand White Sox.

Following the resignation of Roman Gabriel due to personal reasons, Hale assumes the helm after joining the group in early 2020 as an assistant coach.

Hale, the former Ramblers women’s coach say’s “it is an honour to have this opportunity to lead the White Sox programme. I look forward to working with our talented athletes, and management group as we focus towards qualifying for the 2023 WBSC Women’s Softball World Cup.”