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Black Sox thrash Australia, fall to Japan on opening day of softball's Challenge Cup

February 9, 2019

Nathan Nukunuku, who has won four world titles, is making sure the team's selfless culture is being implemented on newer Black Sox.

The Black Sox have endured a mixed opening day of the Challenge Cup softball tournament in Auckland, coming away with two wins and a loss from their first three matches.

Opening against the Black Sox B side, New Zealand came away with a 5-0 victory - with third baseman Tyron Bartolrillo's home run the highlight - while brothers Ben and Thomas Enoka also got on the scoresheet.

Pitcher Daniel Chapman also led the way with a shutout in his first game on Kiwi soil, with eight strikeouts to his name.

However, it wouldn't all go New Zealand's way, with the second match of the day resulting in a 3-0 loss to Japan.

Japanese pitcher Reo Koyama proved unplayable for the Black Sox, allowing just three hits for his efforts. Kiwi counterpart Josh Pettett did his best to keep the Black Sox in the contest, with nine strikeouts of his own.

Ryoyu Une's single allowed for two runs, before a Kotaro Yasumi triple into right field allowed for Une to run home for the third.

Responding to their loss in style, the Black Sox finished the opening day with an emphatic 13-4 demolition over trans-Tasman rivals Australia.

Wayne Laulu led the way with three hits - including a home run and two singles - while captain Nathan Nukunuku had two of his own.

Chapman again showed his wares, this time with 10 strikeouts. However, he also gave away six hits and two walks.

The Black Sox are in action again this afternoon, taking on Japan and Australia in Albany.

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