Saturday, April 4, 2009

New Zealand Hockey Coach Wants His Team to Reach the Final of Sultan Azlan Shah Cup

New Zealand men’s hockey team coach Shane McLeod has set his sight on a final spot of upcoming Sultan Azlan Shah Cup hockey tournament to start from 6 April 2009 in Malaysia. New Zealand is sending a development squad to the tournament, looking to create chances for the young players who would get exposure through this tournament. Alongside New Zealand, there are four other teams including India, Pakistan, Malaysia and Egypt. No doubt, India, Pakistan and New Zealand are the ultimate favorites for the tournament.

Shane McLeod said that their initial target is to make it to the final which, he believes, would not be easy as there are teams like India and Pakistan. He also added that their success in the tournament would depend on the performances of some of the young players who are yet to show their talent and skill in international arena. Experienced players like regular captain Ryan Archibald, Hayden Shaw, Phil Burrows, Simon Child, Brad Shaw and Shea McAleese are all missing from the tournament. New Zealand’s recent performance is not satisfactory as they were beaten 2-0 by India in a home test series. However, I think, it was a good decision to feature a number of young players in the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup tournament because this way, New Zealand could bring out some new faces who could strengthen New Zealand squad ahead of next year’s world cup hockey.

Related article:

NZ Herald

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