Hosts China picked up their fifth victory in a row at the Softball World Championship, thumping error-prone South Africa 12-0 in just five innings on Thursday.

It was the biggest win for China at the tournament so far.

China dominated the match from the beginning to the end, allowing only one hit from the African side.

Young pitcher Zhou Yin made her debut at the Softball Worlds, pitching a complete game.

"Zhou Yin has a very bright future as a pitcher in Chinese softball team," said China's head coach Michael Bastian.

"I will try to give her more opportunities in the Championships. I have confidence in her."

Besides solid defense, China also showed good form in offense. Errors by South Africa's catcher, outfielders and basewomen allowed China seven runs during the bottom of the fourth inning. This is a team-best record so far at the tournament held at Fengtai Softball Field.

Basil Peters, South Africa's head coach, admitted his team's members are just amateurs compared to China.

"China is a good team, well prepared," Peters said.

China is set to face undefeated defending world champions United States on Friday.?
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On Wednesday, China beat New Zealand 6-0, the US swept past Great Britain 7-0 to claim their fourth win. Japan thrashed the Netherlands 10-0,?Australia cruised past Botswana 9-0. In other games, Italy (1-3) edged out South Africa (0-4) 6-2 to take their first victory; Greece (2-2) picked up a 7-0 win over Colombia; Venezuela (3-1) beat Chinese Taipei (1-3) 3-2; Canada (3-1) upset DPR Korea (1-3) 2-0.

(CRI, Xinhua News Agency August 31, 2006)