Veterans Kayla Whitelock and Emily Naylor have earned a recall to the New Zealand women's hockey team for their upcoming tour of Argentina.
The recalled Black Sticks player Kayla Whitelock. Photo: Photosport
Captain Anita Punt will miss the series to continue training in New Zealand under a specialist coach.
The Black Sticks play world No.2 Argentina in six Tests from February 23rd.
Whitelock, who has 229 Test caps to her name, last played for the Black Sticks at the 2014 Glasgow Commonwealth Games before taking a break from the sport which included the birth of daughter Addison.
Naylor (257 caps) also took time away following the Glasgow Games, and suited up in October's South Island series against Argentina but was forced to withdraw after suffering a hamstring injury in the opening game.
The duo add to a strong team of 19 players who will have their first hit out of the year on their road to the Rio Olympic Games in August.
Assistant coach Sean Dancer said it's a great opportunity to begin this year's Olympic build-up against one of the best teams in the world.
"We're looking at this series as a chance to continue developing depth within our group in what is a hugely important year for us," Dancer said.
"This is an exciting group, including the likes of Kayla and Emily who we are excited to see back in action for the Black Sticks."
The series also provides an opportunity for some less experienced players to gain valuable experience with less than 200 days until the Rio Games.
Goalkeepers Amelia Gibson and Georgia Barnett will share time in Argentina with the experienced Sally Rutherford remaining at home.
The series is an important part of the side's lead up to the Hawke's Bay Cup in April, and then the FIH Champions Trophy in London from June 18-26.
-RNZ
