WBSC and Mizuno have unveiled a sustainable ball to be used at softball World Cup events ©WBSC

The World Baseball Softball Confederation (WBSC) and Mizuno have unveiled a sustainable ball to be used at softball World Cup events.

Japanese firm Mizuno is set to provide the new ball starting with the WBSC Women's Softball World Cup group stage this year.

The Mizuno M170, set to replace the M150, is made of synthetic leather and is named after the 17 Sustainable Development Goals of the UN Agenda 2030.

The International Federation’s sustainable development strategy is in line with the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

"I am proud of the partnership the WBSC has with Mizuno, an industry leader and key partner for softball around the world," said WBSC President Riccardo Fraccari.

The M150 was used for the softball tournament during the last three Olympic Games, including Tokyo 2020 ©Getty Images
The M150 was used for the softball tournament during the last three Olympic Games, including Tokyo 2020 ©Getty Images

"Part of the WBSC's mission and strategic plan is to harness our game to help shape a better and more sustainable world and this development of a new, sustainable ball for softball is a significant step in this process."

The new ball with the sustainable material eliminates variations in the stretch and thickness on the surface of the ball.

The M150 was used for the softball tournament during the last three Olympic Games.

Mizuno is the official softball and umpire equipment supplier for all WBSC softball events.

The company has a partnership with WBSC that will run through to 2025.