TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The 2026 World Baseball Classic (WBC) opened on Thursday (March 5), with Taiwan falling 0–3 to Australia in its first game of the tournament. The team was dealt a blow before the game as key player Lee Hao-yu (李灝宇) was sidelined due to injury. During the matchup, Chen Chieh-hsien (陳傑憲) was hit by a pitch and forced to leave the field.
In Taipei, the game was broadcast live at Xiangti Avenue Plaza (信義香堤大道), where a 400-inch LED screen was installed for public viewing. Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an (蔣萬安) and Robert Fergusson, representative of the Australian Office in Taipei, attended the event and waved flags in support. More than 500 spectators gathered at the venue for the midday game. During the noon game, fans chanted "Go Taiwan," creating a lively atmosphere despite the result.
At the cheering event, Chiang presented Fergusson with stinky tofu, while Fergusson returned the gesture with Vegemite, often referred to as "Australia's stinky tofu," highlighting a friendly cultural exchange. Commenting on Chen's injury, Chiang said "everyone is deeply saddened to see this happen," expressing hope that the player's condition was not serious and wishing him good health.
Looking ahead to Taiwan's game against Japan on Friday (March 6), Chiang said he would continue to watch and support the team, hoping for a strong performance. Despite the loss, fans applauded and chanted, "We may lose the game, but not our spirit," voicing support as Taiwan seeks to keep its hopes of advancing alive. Taipei's Department of Sports will set up a live broadcast area along Xiangti Avenue Plaza from Thursday to Sunday (March 8), featuring high-quality audio equipment and 500 seats for fans to enjoy.
