Australia’s U23 Men’s Softball Team is ready to return to the world stage, arriving in Sincelejo, Colombia ahead of the 2026 WBSC U23 Men’s Softball World Cup from 25 April to 3 May.

Entering the tournament as defending champions, Australia carries both confidence and expectation following its historic victory at the inaugural event in 2023, where they defeated Japan in the gold medal match.

This year’s squad represents a new chapter, with just two player,s Jack Besgrove and Haydan Dobe, returning from that championship winning team. Arguably one of the world’s best, Besgrove’s experience on the mound will be critical, and Dobe's poise, providing leadership and composure in high pressure moments as Australia looks to go back to back.

Head Coach Scott Sunley has reinforced that while individual talent is important, the team’s strength lies in its collective approach.

“We obviously have some key players in the team who can make an impact, but my focus is on the group as a whole. All 16 players have an important role to play in what we’re building. We’ve got a strong mix of experienced senior players and exciting young talent, and what’s been impressive is how well they’ve come together. Every player brings something valuable. Success comes from everyone doing their job and trusting each other.”

Preparation has been a key focus in the lead up, with Sunley highlighting the team’s commitment and unity.

“Over the past several months, the players have taken every opportunity to improve and train. What has stood out most is the unity and pride in representing each other and Australia. The commitment shown by this team has been outstanding and as defending world champions, there is a real understanding of what needs to be done to take home the gold medal.”

Group B: A Competitive Pathway

Australia has been drawn into Group B, where they will face Canada, Venezuela, Mexico, Singapore and Denmark. Canada and Venezuela present the biggest early challenges, with both nations consistently performing at a high international level.

At a World Cup, there are no easy match ups something Sunley is acutely aware of.

“There are no easy games, but there are a few nations who consistently set a high benchmark such as New Zealand, Japan and Argentina. At a World Cup level, the gap between teams is small. So for us every play and every at bat will be important.”

The top three teams from each group will progress to the Super Round, making every game in the group stage crucial.

Fixture Snapshot (AEST)
Full schedule available via WBSC event page

• 26 April: Australia vs Mexico
• 27 April: Australia vs Singapore
• 28 April: Australia vs Denmark
• 29 April: Australia vs Canada
• 30 April: Australia vs Venezuela

How to Watch

All matches will be streamed live via GameTime: https://gametime.sport/

Australian U23 Men’s Team

·      Jack Besgrove

·      Brian Kirkup

·      Joel Byrne

·      Corie List

·      Ayden Champneys

·      Boston Lowe

·      Nicholas Crouch

·      Thomas McCarroll

·      Haydan Dobe

·      Kynan Molander

·      Alex Duncalfe

·      Kayne Richmann

·      Austin Gooden

·      Oliver Stewart

·      Lachlan Hort

·      Jy Thurstun

Australian U23 Men’s Team Officials

·      Scott Sunley – Head Coach

·      Isaac Caloiero-Smith – Assistant Coach

·      Joel Goodall – Battery Coach

·      Andrea Mansfield – Team Manager

·      Tony Jackson – Video Analyst

·      Harry Pearce – Physiotherapist

·      Shakira McColl – Statistician

With a united squad, strong preparation, and a clear understanding of what it takes to win on the world stage, Australia enters the 2026 U23 Men’s Softball World Cup ready to embrace the challenge and defend its title.

Full team information and tournament updates