The Black Sox have claimed second place at the Men’s Softball World Cup after a tough 3–0 loss to Venezuela in the final. The game was played early Monday morning. This marks a big comeback for New Zealand after they placed eighth in the 2022 tournament.
With seven world titles already in their history, the Black Sox remain the most successful team in men’s softball. This was their 10th time in a world final and their first medal since 2017.
The team, coached by Thomas Makea, focused on rebuilding this year. Makea said their journey was powered by strong team bonds and whanaungatanga, or a sense of connection. They reached the final after a must-win game against Japan, which they won 8–3.
In the final, Venezuela struck first with a home run in the third inning. New Zealand created chances to score, but couldn’t break through Venezuela’s tough pitching. Pitcher Liam Potts started well for the Black Sox, and the defence made several great plays, including a diving catch by Te Kirika Cooper-Nicola.
But in the sixth inning, Venezuela added two more runs with another home run. Despite a final push, New Zealand couldn’t score. In the bronze medal match, the USA beat Japan 10–1.
