WBSC has updated its ball certification programme for Baseball5 ©WBSC

The World Baseball Softball Confederation (WBSC) has updated its Baseball5 official game ball certification programme.

The updated certification programme has been published by the WBSC Integrity Unit, which was established last month.

The Integrity Unit is tasked with enhancing fair play and transparency, protecting athletes' rights, promoting inclusiveness and further enhancing governance.

"Baseball5 has been on an incredible journey since its inception just over two years ago," said WBSC secretary general and Integrity Unit chair Beng Choo Low.

"The WBSC Integrity Unit is excited to contribute to the continued development of our newest discipline by placing even more emphasis on athletes' rights, fair competition and a level playing field for all those taking part in the sport."

The updated certification programme was considered necessary to ensure Member Federations meet international standards for the discipline.

Baseball5 was launched by the WBSC to be a quicker, more urban-friendly version of baseball where batters strike the ball with their hand rather than a bat.

There are five players on each team, who both have five innings.

Modifications to the sport’s rules were published in September.

The certification rules specify the Baseball5 ball requirements and standard dimensions for manufacturers ©WBSC
The certification rules specify the Baseball5 ball requirements and standard dimensions for manufacturers ©WBSC

"Given how Baseball5 has quickly grown in many countries, the need for stringent international standards and updating our Baseball5 ball certification programme remain among our top priorities as we continue to monitor the expansion of this exciting, young sport," said WBSC President Riccardo Fraccari.

As part of the Baseball5 ball certification programme, the WBSC released an updated, comprehensive set of rules for manufacturers and a list of approved manufacturers.

The certification rules, available in English and Spanish, specify the Baseball5 ball requirements and standard dimensions for manufacturers.

The governing body said this will ensure athletes are competing under the same conditions in every country.

An application process is also outlined to ensure all certified Baseball5 balls are of high-quality and competition ready, while a third-party certified testing facility is tasked with receiving and evaluating the samples and delivering the results.