After making it through one of the toughest groups at the LG Presents WBSC Women's Baseball World Cup 2016, the Australian Emeralds presented by Boral have secured their place in the Super Round, and remain in contention for a medal at the tournament.
After an opening day defeat at the hands of Chinese Taipei, the Emeralds’ backs were against the wall, and a 14-0 victory over Hong Kong set up a mouth watering clash with the 2nd ranked side in Women’s Baseball, the USA.
To guarantee qualification for the Super Round, Australia needed to defeat the USA by five or more runs, a seemingly tough task given America’s status in the women’s game.
Behind an incredible outing from 17-year-old Abbey Kelly and some outstanding offence, the Emeralds defeated the USA 10-2 and in turn, foiled America’s quest for a medal at the World Cup.
As the second team to qualify from Group C, Australia needs to win at least three of their four games in the Super Round to give themselves a chance to play-off for a gold medal. The top two teams in the super round play off for the gold medal, while the teams that finish third and fourth play off for the bronze.
The Emeralds begin their Super Round campaign against #4 ranked Canada on Wednesday, then continue against Korea, #1 ranked Japan and finish with Venezuela on Saturday.
Catch all of The Emeralds’ games live via the WBSC YouTube Channel.
EMERALDS SUPER ROUND SCHEDULE:
vs. Canada (Ranked #4), 7pm local (8pm AEST) – Wednesday 7 September
vs. Korea (#11), 9.30am local (10.30am AEST) – Thursday 8 September
vs. Japan (#1), 7pm local (8pm AEST) – Friday 9 September
vs. Venezuela (#5), 7pm local (8pm AEST) – Saturday 10 September