Cuba's U-23 team faces Dominican Republic in World Cup opener

Havana, September 23 (RHC)-- The Cuban baseball team will debut this Thursday against the Dominican Republic in the III Under-23 World Cup, to be played by 12 teams in Mexico.

The boys coached by Eriel Sanchez, who will make their debut in these events, held their first training session on Wednesday at the Yaquis de Obregon stadium, after arriving in Mexico on Tuesday.

Cuba is in Group A of the tournament along with the Dominican Republic, Czech Republic, Germany, Chinese Taipei and Mexico, reigning champion.

In Group B, Colombia, South Korea, the Netherlands, Nicaragua, Panama and Venezuela will play.

The top three in each bracket will advance to the Super Round.

Among the most outstanding players of the Cuban national team are starter and captain Guillermo García, MVP in the final of the last Cuban championship, outfielder Geisel Cepeda, who also had a great performance in the previous campaign, and pitcher Bryan Chi, a member of the Florida Pre-Olympic team and considered the first pitcher of the staff.

After making its debut against the Dominican Republic, the Cuban team will play against Mexico on Friday 24, Taipei on Saturday 25, Germany on Sunday 26 and the Czech Republic on Monday 27 to close the qualifying phase.