(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Vantage Black Sticks Men Announce Squad for 2025 Oceania Cup
WELLINGTON, New Zealand – Hockey New Zealand has confirmed the Vantage Black Sticks Men’s squad for the highly anticipated 2025 Oceania Cup, set to take place from 4–7 September at the MWT Hockey Centre in Darwin, Australia.
The 13th edition of the tournament will feature a best-of-three Test series between New Zealand and Australia. Traditionally, the Oceania Cup determines automatic qualification for the FIH Hockey World Cup, but this year carries a unique twist. With Australia already qualified through the FIH Pro League, the Black Sticks Men have secured their World Cup spot regardless of the series results.
Rivalry Renewed
While qualification is assured, the Trans-Tasman rivalry remains the heart of the competition. Facing the world-class Kookaburras on home turf provides New Zealand with both a challenge and an opportunity to claim regional bragging rights.
Match Schedule (NZT):
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Game 1: 4 September – 8:30 PM
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Game 2: 6 September – 6:30 PM
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Game 3: 7 September – 6:30 PM
All matches will be streamed live and free on TVNZ+.
Vantage Black Sticks Men – Oceania Cup 2025 Squad
Benji Culhane, Brad Read, Bradley Rothwell, Charlie Morrison, Dane Lett, Dom Dixon, Dylan Thomas, George Baker, Finn Ward, Isaac Houlbrooke, Joe Morrison, Malachi Buschl, Matthew Ruetsch, Patrick Ward, Sam Hiha, Sam Lane, Scott Boyde, Sean Findlay, Simon Yorston
This year’s Oceania Cup promises top-class hockey, fierce competition, and national pride, as the Black Sticks look to make their mark against one of the sport’s most dominant teams.
