Experienced Otago midfielder Nick Ross has returned to the Black Sticks for the World Cup in India next month.
Ross, who has 138 caps, makes his comeback after taking a break from international duty this year.
He still managed a reasonably significant moment in 2022 as he led Otago to a breakthrough win at the national championship.
"Having not played since the Tokyo Olympics, I’m really looking forward to joining the team again and hope to bring some value to the group," Ross said in a statement.
"This is a talented side and one I'm really keen to be a part of.
"I think we have a huge opportunity at this World Cup to achieve something special, and I know the guys are relishing the prospect of some of the big match-ups we'll encounter throughout the tournament."
Ross joins fellow Otago golden generation members Blair Tarrant — who captained the Black Sticks at the Birmingham Commonwealth Games, but has since handed that role to Nic Woods — and Kane Russell.
There is, however, a prominent name missing.
Otago great Hugo Inglis, who has 246 test caps and 72 goals, has made himself unavailable for selection.
Inglis is focusing on his role as managing director of High Impact Athletes, which links elite sportspeople with charities, but is understood to have an eye on a hockey comeback for the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Defender Charlie Morrison (19) will make his debut for the Black Sticks at the World Cup in India.
Coach Greg Nicol said it was nice to be able to bring in experience along with exciting new talent.
“The defensive end is obviously something we’ve been working on, and so to have the experience of Nick available for selection, as well as a young talent in Charlie, is really exciting.
“Overall, this is a strong side that is capable of taking on any team. We’ve got a really good mix of experience and young players, ready to make an impact all over the pitch.”
The Black Sticks’ opening game is against Chile on January 14. They also face the Netherlands (January 16) and Malaysia (January 19) in pool play.
Black Sticks
The squad
Dom Dixon, Leon Hayward, Blair Tarrant, Dane Lett, Nic Woods (captain), Charlie Morrison, Nick Ross, Simon Yorston, Kane Russell, Aidan Sarikaya, Hayden Phillips, Sean Findlay, Joe Morrison, Kim Kingstone, Sam Lane, Jake Smith, Sam Hiha, Simon Child. Travelling reserves: Connor Greentree, David Brydon.
