Welcome to this daily summary of the maiden WBSC U-15 Women’s Softball World Cup, giving you the latest news and key updates on the new WBSC event.
Tokyo, Japan – World No. 1 USA prevailed 3-0 in the unprecedented championship showdown of the inaugural WBSC U-15 Women’s Softball World Cup with Puerto Rico in the final at Ota Stadium in Tokyo, Japan on Sunday.
USA now holds every World Championship title in women’s softball, namely the WBSC U-15, U-18 and Senior crowns.
The win was based on a superb pitching performance from Macie Bryant who allowed only one hit and claimed 17 strikeouts while leadoff hitter Aspen Boulware, named tournament MVP, collected another hit and a run, which contributed towards her impressive tournament record of 8-for-19, .421 batting average, 10 runs, four home runs and six RBIs.
“We worked so hard to be here and we ended up winning,” Boulware said. “I was very surprised that I got MVP, and every time they called my name (for an award) it just felt surreal. I expected to do my best and my best happened to exceed my expectations.
“This is a step towards LA28, with softball being played in the Olympics. Being No. 1 in the world is awesome and I am so honoured to be part of it.”
Earlier in the day, world No. 2 Japan beat No. 5 Chinese Taipei 2-0 to claim the bronze medal. Japan pitcher Shion Yamamoto was the home side’s star, working seven innings with three hits and no runs. She also had four strikeouts. Sari Nagatomo and Lilia Lewis scored the crucial runs for Japan on offence.
Credit: WSBC