Claims refuted

Press, 11 March 1989, Page 14

Claims refuted

PA Auckland The New Zealand softball coach, Mike Walsh, has refuted suggestions that out■standing Auckland second base, Eddie Kohlhase, may have jeopardised his national selection chances by public comments during the season. The country’s national league players have their final chance to impress Mr Walsh and his fellow selectors, Paul Rogers and John Joyce, when the league ends at the week-end. Kohlhase’s name has been to the forefront of softball this season both on and off the diamond. His news media comments have raised the ire of officials, and sometimes players. He was the most outspoken of the players who boycotted the Auckland side. A bad hamstring injury will

limit his role to 'that of a designated hitter in his club Marist’s league games against Hutt City United and Poneke Kilbirnie at the week-end. Kohlhase was uncertain when he would be back in his defensive position for the defending national champions. During more controversial times this season, there were strong feelings that Kohlhase’s written efforts may have damaged his national selection chances because the sport’s hierarchy viewed them as too damaging to the sport. Mr Walsh said, however, that form would be the only factor in selecting the side. “We will go into the series against the United States with the best team available, and Eddie’s form and fitness will be the only things considered.”