The South African team opened their campaign with a convincing 2–0 victory over Botswana, dominating the first set 10–0 before securing the second set 9–4.

Their second encounter against Zambia proved to be a much tougher challenge. South Africa claimed the opening set 13–7, but Zambia fought back strongly to take the second set 3–1, forcing the match into a deciding third set. South Africa responded with a determined performance, winning the final set 10–7 to secure a 2–1 match victory.

In their third and final match of the day, South Africa faced Botswana for a second time. The team again made a strong start, taking the opening set 10–0. Botswana offered much stronger resistance in the second set, but South Africa held their nerve to win 8–7 and complete another 2–0 victory.

The three victories ensured that South Africa finished the opening day unbeaten, placing the team in a strong position heading into the remaining fixtures.

The championship brings together youth teams from South Africa, Botswana, Zambia and Lesotho, competing in the exciting mixed-gender Baseball5 format. The fast-paced competition provides an important platform for developing young baseball talent across the Southern African region.

The tournament continues on Friday, 9 October, with further round-robin matches before the knockout stages and championship final on Saturday, 10 October.

South Africa will be looking to carry their opening-day momentum into the remaining matches as they pursue the Southern African Youth Baseball5 title.