Hockey New Zealand can affirm a revised format for the Vantage Black Sticks Ladies’s Summer season of Hockey in Dunedin, following the unlucky withdrawal of India and Korea from the sequence. Because of the lately introduced World Cup qualifier, they face logistical challenges and troublesome scheduling commitments. Whereas that is disappointing information, we now have labored shortly with all companions to make sure the occasion continues and delivers thrilling hockey for gamers and followers alike.
Japan and america stay confirmed, alongside robust native opposition with NZA included to make sure a full four-team competitors. The revised occasion will proceed to run throughout the unique dates of 21–25 January 2026 and can now function as a three-nation, four-team sequence on the Alexander McMillan Hockey Centre. Every staff will play each other as soon as earlier than progressing to a finals day, permitting for 2 matches per day and a full programme of motion. As an FIH-sanctioned occasion, all matches performed between New Zealand, Japan, and america will rely as official worldwide take a look at matches, whereas fixtures involving NZA will present priceless high-level competitors and depth to the match.
Hockey New Zealand stays excited and proud to carry worldwide hockey again to Dunedin. This occasion performs an vital function within the Vantage Black Sticks Ladies’s preparation in a World Cup 12 months, whereas additionally giving the native hockey neighborhood the prospect to observe world-class athletes compete on dwelling soil. Internet hosting worldwide take a look at matches in Aotearoa is massively vital for our gamers, our followers, and the expansion of the sport, and we’re dedicated to delivering a memorable summer time hockey expertise.
Up to date Match Schedule:
Wednesday, January 21
4:30pm: Japan vs New Zealand A6:30pm: Vantage Black Sticks vs United States
Thursday, January 22
4:30pm: Japan vs United States6:30pm: Vantage Black Sticks vs New Zealand A
Saturday, January 24
2:00pm: United States vs New Zealand A4:00pm: Vantage Black Sticks vs Japan
Sunday, January 25 – Finals Day
2:00pm: third place vs 4th place4:00pm: 1st place vs 2nd place
Michelle Hollands CEO, expresses that Hockey New Zealand is happy to carry worldwide hockey to Dunedin. “The Vantage Black Sticks versus Japan and USA alongside our NZA will likely be some high-quality worldwide hockey for the local people to observe”. We look ahead to welcoming supporters to the turf and celebrating a summer time of hockey on dwelling soil.
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