The Kookaburras will begin their Hero Honda FIH World Cup preparation for 2010 with a three test series against Korea starting on 28 January at the Tasmanian Hockey Centre in Hobart.
Ric Charlesworth will be keen for his team to continue their winning form from the 2009 ABN AMRO Hockey Champions Trophy, where the Kookaburras defeated Korea 4-0 and then went on to win the final against Germany. (5-3) ‘During the Champions Trophy, several of the younger members of the team really stood up against some quality opposition. We’re looking to further the experience of both the national squad and development squad with our lead-in series’ to the World Cup,’ says Charlesworth.
Whilst Korea and Australia are in alternate pools for the upcoming World Cup, both teams will be viewing this series as a crucial step leading to squad selection for the major tournament.
“Hockey Australia are very pleased to award the Kookaburras versus Korea Test Match Series to Tasmania”, stated Chief Executive, Mark Anderson. “One of our key objectives is to ensure the exposure of our sport across Australia. It is important that Tasmania has exposure to our elite teams and we are aware that it has been a long time since the State had the opportunity to host the Kookaburras. These Test matches offer sports lovers in Tasmania a tremendous opportunity to see one of Australia’s most successful sporting teams live and we would encourage spectators to make the most of the series”, he said.
The final Kookaburras squad for the series is yet to be named, however Tasmanian Eddie Ockenden is expected to play. Experienced Kookaburra, David Guest has also been selected in the 2010 National Squad and will be considered for the series.
Series schedule:
Game 1- Thursday 28 January- 19:00
Game 2- Saturday 30 January- 17:00
Game 3- Sunday 31 January- 19:00
Source: Hockey Australia
