Stroberg and Steyn to fly SA flag high in Japan
They are part of the 20-player travelling squad announced by the South African Baseball Union (SABU) recently.
Caelum Stroberg and Connor Steyn of the Benoni Indians have been selected to represent South Africa at the U18 World Baseball Softball Confederation (WBSC) World Cup, set to take place in Okinawa, Japan, from September 5 to 14.
Their inclusion follows what officials described as a “rigorous process involving provincial scouting, national training camps, and consistent player assessments.”
Stroberg and Steyn were also part of the squad that secured South Africa’s qualification for the tournament by whitewashing Zimbabwe in the African qualifiers in January, held at the Boksburg Cardinals diamonds.
The final team consists of 20 travelling players, 10 from Gauteng and 10 from the Western Cape, and six non-travelling reserves, comprising three from the Western Cape, two from Gauteng, and one from the Eastern Cape.
South African Baseball Union (SABU) president Marc Moreau praised the selected players and the structures that produced them.
“This is an exciting moment for South African baseball. These young men have shown discipline, drive, and character. We are confident they will not only compete with pride but also gain valuable international experience that will benefit our national programme in the long term,” said Moreau.
The team will be led by head coach Dean McKinnon, supported by assistant coaches Mark du Plessis, Daniel Coetzer and Darryn Smith. Kyle Titus will oversee conditioning and recovery, while Gavin Bennett will serve as head of delegation.
“We have selected a squad of players who are talented, coachable and passionate,” said McKinnon. “This World Cup is about more than wins and losses. It’s about experience, growth and national pride.”
Moreau noted that the team is now entering the final phase of its preparation before travelling to the Land of the Rising Sun.
“With continued training, focused strategy and strong national support, the squad is aiming to deliver a competitive performance on the world stage,” he said. “SABU also acknowledges the vital role played by parents, coaches, provincial unions and supporters in the players’ journeys.”
Also Read: Stroberg named Benoni Indians junior sportsman of the year
Also Read: SA whitewash Zimbabwe to qualify for world cup
