Australians Parnaby, Besgrove lead Hawke’s Bay and Auckland to New Zealand national titles
Australian pitchers Kaia Parnaby and Jack Besgrove played decisive roles in guiding Hawke’s Bay and Auckland to titles at the New Zealand National Championships, delivering standout performances in the women’s and men’s competitions, respectively.
Parnaby powered Hawke’s Bay to their first-ever national women’s championship, earning Best Pitcher honours for her dominant performances throughout the tournament.
In the final, Hawke’s Bay rallied from a 3–1 deficit to defeat defending champions Hutt Valley 8–4, with a pivotal five-run fifth inning turning the game in their favour. Parnaby’s control in the circle anchored the comeback victory.
Melanie Gettins was named the tournament’s Most Valuable Player in the women’s competition.
In the men’s final in Christchurch, Besgrove delivered a commanding performance as Auckland secured a 6–0 win over last year's runner's up Canterbury.
The right-hander limited Canterbury to just three hits, controlling the contest from the outset. Besgrove’s outstanding tournament campaign earned him MVP honours.
The championship marked Auckland’s 13th national title since 2000, reinforcing the region’s sustained success in New Zealand softball.
The event also featured touching moments. New Zealand pitching legend Marty Grant received his WBSC Hall of Fame ring during the tournament, with current and former Black Sox players performing a haka in his honour while Liam Potts was presented with his WBSC Softball Player of the Year award.