China shines at women's softball Asia Cup 2025

XI'AN, July 14 (Xinhua) -- Host China notched a pair of 15-0 wins against India and Hong Kong, China at the ongoing women's softball Asia Cup 2025 here on Monday.

Runner-up in the tournament's previous edition, China took an early lead against India in the first inning, with Xie Yue contributing a base hit that allowed Yan Siyu to score. The host continued to increase its advantage, scoring 10 runs in the second inning to eliminate any suspense. In the third inning, Xie Jiaxin hit a home run, and Li Jiaqi sealed the victory with an outstanding base hit.

"I am very happy with the result, and I'd like to thank my coach for giving me the opportunity to play," Li Xintian of Xi'an Physical Education University told Xinhua after her China debut.

"After the first inning, the coach asked us to be patient. His suggestion made our performance become better and better." Li Xintian added.

In the later game, China hit two home runs in the second inning against Hong Kong, building a 13-0 lead before the third inning. The team added two more points, earning their second consecutive win.

"We still have something to improve although we had two wins. For example, we may do better in defense and running," said China's Ren Min.

The Asia Cup also serves as the qualifier for the 2026 Women's Softball World Cup and the 2026 Asian Games. The top three teams will qualify for the World Cup, while the top eight will secure spots at the Asian Games.

The 10 teams will compete in a round-robin format over the first six days of the seven-day event. The top two teams will face off in the gold medal game on Sunday, while the third and fourth-place teams will compete for the bronze medal.

"Since May 18, our team has been training together. Our players executed our tactics well, and their performance looks promising," said China's team manager Yang Liu.

In other matches on the opening day, Chinese Taipei defeated Hong Kong 10-0, and overwhelmed Thailand 19-0. Defending champion Japan beat Malaysia 10-0, while the Philippines routed Thailand 15-1, and South Korea edged Singapore 5-0.

On Tuesday, China will face Malaysia and Thailand. Enditem