He will be joined in the squad by Nic Woods, who also plies his trade for German club Hamburger Polo.
The four-test series in late January and early February will serve as a critical buildup towards the 2026 FIH World Cup.
The series also marks the first time the Black Sticks men have played on home soil since the Oceania Cup in Whangārei in 2023, and comes off the back of a strong end to 2025, including a bronze medal at the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup in Malaysia and a gold medal at the FIH Nations Cup, also in Malaysia.
Veteran striker and captain Sam Lane said starting the new cycle at home was a huge boost for the Black Sticks.
"It’s exciting to start our very important 2026 World Cup year at home playing in front of our fans again," he said.
"Although we love travelling together as a squad, nothing beats playing at home.
"We’ve got an exciting squad, despite a few injuries, and having the experience and quality of players like Nic Woods and Kane Russell back in the group is a massive boost heading into a World Cup year."
Otago duo Benji Culhane and Malachi Buschl have also been named in the squad. — Allied Media
