Veteran midfielder Shea McAleese returns to the Black Sticks men's side selected to defend its title at the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup in Malaysia.
McAleese is part of a strong team named yesterday by head coach Colin Batch. The Black Sticks won last year's event after a thrilling 3-1 result over Australia in a shoot-out and are looking for back-to-back titles at the tournament on April 7-17.
McAleese last played international hockey nine months ago at the FIH World League semifinal in Argentina.
Fresh from series wins against Malaysia in Tauranga and South Korea in Auckland, New Zealand heads away with momentum and confidence.
McAleese (221 caps) adds to an experienced core of players alongside Ryan Archibald (306) and captain Simon Child (253).
Following a successful debut series against South Korea, Central midfielder Hayden Phillips will get his first taste of international tournament hockey.
Batch said the tournament was another opportunity to develop as a group with an eye on the Rio Olympic Games in August.
‘‘We've given this group the opportunity to test themselves in a tough tournament situation and try to cement a spot for Rio,'' he said.
‘‘However, there is still a chance for all players to stake their claim as we continue to try and discover the best combinations.
‘‘The addition of Shea adds experience and leadership to the group and he also brings a voice and organisation on the field, which is something we need.
‘‘Hayden showed some good signs in his debut series and he has been given the opportunity to test himself in a tournament situation. It's a big step up and we're looking forward to seeing what he can do.''
McAleese will join the Black Sticks in Malaysia from Europe, where he has been playing club hockey for Belgium side Braxgata.
After almost a year away from the international scene he is looking forward to helping the team push for another Azlan Shah Cup.
‘‘I'm really looking forward to getting back out on the turf with the Black Sticks and confident we can put together a good performance at the tournament,'' he said.
‘‘There is great depth within the group right now and some impressive talent, so we are looking forward to continuing our fine tuning to make sure we are at our peak come Rio.''
Black Sticks
For Sultan Azlan Shah Cup
Midfielders: Ryan Archibald (Auckland), Shea McAleese (Central), George Muir (North Harbour), Arun Panchia (Auckland), Hayden Phillips (Central), Nic Woods (Midlands).
Strikers: Simon Child (Auckland), James Coughlan (North Harbour), Hugo Inglis (Southern), Stephen Jenness (Capital), Shay Neal (Northland), Jacob Smith (Capital), Nick Wilson (Central).
Defenders: Kane Russell (Southern), Bradley Shaw (Canterbury), Blair Tarrant ( Southern)
Goalkeepers: Devon Manchester (Auckland), Kyle Pontifex.
