The Aussie Spirit have taken home the silverware, defeating Chinese Taipei to win the International Softball Series at Redlands Softball Association, with a 4–2 series victory. 

Australia opened the series with two thrilling comeback wins on Saturday, highlighted by a walk-off hit from debutant Nicole Connacher. After dropping both contests on Sunday, the Spirit regrouped with a sharper hitting approach and disciplined pitching performance to reclaim momentum. 

Shaylan Whatman emerged as a dominant force at the plate, delivering doubles in consecutive games and driving in pivotal runs when it mattered most. Her composure, consistency, and offensive firepower earned her the title of Series MVP. 

Credit: Brad Redfern Photography

Speaking after the series win, Whatman reflected on the team’s belief. 

“I believed in myself, I believed in my team and I knew that we would be able to do it no matter what. We didn’t want to tie it up, we wanted to go out and be aggressive today.” 
 
She also praised the support of the Redlands community. 

“Having people show up to support every day, midweek, no matter what time, was awesome. You feel so much love and support from everybody here. They really care about us as people, not just athletes so it’s really special having their support.” 

Head Coach Kerrie Porter echoed the importance of playing on home soil. 

“We’ve been deprived of international softball in Australia for a number of years at this level consistently [following COVID], so we’re extremely grateful for the opportunity to compete against these highly ranked teams in our preparation towards the World Cup in April 2027. 

“The summer of softball is important to us as we demonstrate that softball, already proven on the Olympic stage, is a global, dynamic sport that deserves its place back in the Games.” 

Credit: Scott Powick - Softball Australia Media

Next up in the summer of softball, Australia will host USA for the first time since the Sydney 2000 Olympics from 31 December – 2 January.  

Find more details on the USA Down Under Series HERE and join the mail list for exclusive updates, behind-the-scenes news, and early access to event info! 

Game Highlights 

Game 5: Aussie Spirit 6 defeated Chinese Taipei 1 

Chinese Taipei struck first in the opening inning, with Australia’s run production coming in the fourth and fifth innings. While both teams had four hits each, Shaylan Whatman again proved the difference in the box, with two doubles and four RBIs.  Grace Wrixon and Ellen Roberts combined on the mound, only conceding four hits and one run across the game.   

Game 6: Aussie Spirit 10 defeated Chinese Taipei 7 

A five-run fifth inning and three in the sixth was the run production Head Coach, Kerrie Porter was looking for all series. The Spirit scored in four separate innings, combined with 11 hits from eight different batters, a strong way to seal the series win for Australia. Tamieka Whitefield, Alyssa Mighel and Kylie Steemers all registered multiple hits.  

Credit: Brad Redfern Photography

Read highlights for Games 1 – 4.