Hockey New Zealand can verify a revised format for the Vantage Black Sticks Males’s Summer time of Hockey collection in Hamilton following the withdrawal of Malaysia and Korea from the occasion. Each nations have cited latest World Cup qualifier scheduling and related logistical challenges as the rationale for his or her withdrawal.
Whereas this alteration is disappointing, Hockey New Zealand can announce that Japan stays confirmed and the occasion will now proceed as a four-test-match collection between the Vantage Black Sticks and Japan on the Gallagher Hockey Centre (Waikato Hockey). The revised format nonetheless supplies a superb alternative for the Vantage Black Sticks Males to compete towards high quality worldwide opposition on dwelling soil, whereas persevering with to construct momentum towards key worldwide targets, together with the 2026 FIH World Cup.
To make sure each groups obtain the quantity and depth of match play initially deliberate, the New Zealand A Males’s squad will assemble alongside the collection. NZA will play Japan and the Vantage Black Sticks Males in a number of warm-up matches main into the official check collection. This method not solely helps Japan’s preparation but in addition supplies precious alternatives to check depth, develop rising expertise, and expose gamers to worldwide opposition inside a high-performance surroundings.
Up to date Match Schedule:
Friday, January 30
6:30pm: Vantage Black Sticks vs Japan
Sunday, February 1
4:30pm: Vantage Black Sticks vs Japan
Monday, February 2
6:30pm: Vantage Black Sticks vs Japan
Wednesday, February 4
10.00am: Vantage Black Sticks vs Japan
Regardless of the revised construction, the Summer time of Hockey stays an thrilling likelihood for followers to see the Vantage Black Sticks Males again on dwelling turf, competing towards a powerful Japanese aspect and showcasing the depth of New Zealand hockey. Hockey New Zealand stays dedicated to delivering a high-quality worldwide expertise for gamers, followers, and the broader hockey group, and appears ahead to bringing top-level males’s hockey to Hamilton this summer season.
We’d prefer to acknowledge the assist from our companions in delivering this occasion, Hamilton Metropolis Council, Perry Group and Waikato Hockey.
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