18 May 2015

Black Sticks bank on veterans

2:44 pm on 18 May 2015

An experienced Black Sticks men's lineup will chase Olympic qualification when they contest hockey's World League Semi Final in Buenos Aires next month.

The New Zealand side includes veteran Phil Burrows who's played 336 internationals and three other players who played over 200 tests - Ryan Archibald (284), captain Simon Child (230) and Shea McAleese (214).

The Black Sticks are among 10 sides competing for a place in the World League Final, while the event also doubles as an opportunity to automatically qualify for the 2016 Rio Olympics with a top three placing.

Archibald returns to the side after missing the recent International Challenge in Hobart, adding strength to a youthful and talented midfield including Arun Panchia, George Muir and Nic Woods.

Black Sticks veteran Phil Burrows.

Black Sticks veteran Phil Burrows. Photo: Photosport

Southern defender and drag flicking option Kane Russell also returns for the first time this year after being rewarded for a strong period of training.

Head coach Colin Batch said despite several injuries within the squad it was pleasing to have strong players ready to step up.

"We have some injuries at present with Nick Wilson, Shay Neal and James Coughlan all sidelined, but have created good depth and are still able to put out a very good side for Argentina," he said.

That depth has led to a few role changes in this team with Phil Burrows moving back up to striker and Shea McAleese pushing back into defence.

"Steve Edwards will also move into the attacking line. He is a very talented player with great attacking skills and we think he can be genuine goal scoring threat."

New Zealand is joined in Pool A at the tournament by Netherlands, Korea, Japan and Egypt while Pool B consists of Germany, Argentina, Spain, Canada and Austria.

The World League format sees the Black Sticks play four pool games ahead of a crucial sudden-death quarter final.

The side's first match is against Egypt on June 4th.