The WBSC Under-18 Women’s Softball World Cup in Lima has been rescheduled to March and April ©WBSC

The inaugural World Baseball Softball Confederation (WBSC) Under-18 Women’s Softball World Cup in Lima has been rescheduled to March and April.

Competition was due to take place in the Peruvian capital from August 23 to 30 but was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

It is now set to take place from March 27 to April 4 2021. 

"The WBSC thanks the Peruvian Softball Federation and the Peruvian Sports Institute for remaining both committed and excited to host the inaugural WBSC Under-18 Women’s Softball World Cup in Lima, Peru next year," said WBSC softball division chairman Tommy Velázquez. 

"2021 is set to be the biggest year in international softball history, with a full calendar that expands beyond the traditional summer months of June, July and August, allowing the international game and national teams to be showcased on a more year-round basis."

Competition will take place at Villa María del Triunfo, used for softball at the Lima 2019 Pan American Games ©Lima 2019
Competition will take place at Villa María del Triunfo, used for softball at the Lima 2019 Pan American Games ©Lima 2019

Sixteen teams will compete at the Villa María del Triunfo complex, the softball venue used for the Lima 2019 Pan American Games.

This includes the top three under-18 teams in the world - the United States, Japan and Canada. 

The Philippines and Colombia have been included as wildcards. 

Due to the one year postponement of the tournament, all players who would have been eligible to participate in this year's competition will still be able to play next year, even if they exceed the age limit.