THE NEW ZEALAND UNDER-21 SQUADS FOR 2026 HAVE BEEN ANNOUNCED

The next generation of Future Black Sticks is set to take the next step on the international stage, with Hockey New Zealand announcing its Men's and Women's Under-21 squads.

Following the recent National Under-21 Selection Camp in Hamilton, 20 players have been selected in each squad as New Zealand begins its campaign towards the FIH Junior Hockey World Cup Qualifiers in Australia this October.

The tournament will see New Zealand face Australia in the Oceania qualifying event, with qualification for next year's Junior World Cups on the line.

The selected squads represent the first major milestone under newly appointed Head Coaches Danielle Cranston (Women's U21) and Hemant Lala (Men's U21), who were appointed earlier this year to lead the next Junior World Cup cycle.

The National Selection Camp brought together approximately 60 of New Zealand's most promising young athletes, providing an opportunity for coaches and selectors to assess the country's emerging talent across technical, tactical, physical and behavioural performance areas.

For many players, selection marks the beginning of their international journey and another important step along Hockey New Zealand's Future Black Sticks pathway towards senior international hockey.

Women's Head Coach Danielle Cranston said she was excited by the quality and potential within the group.

"Selecting this squad is an exciting milestone after an outstanding selection camp. The depth of talent coming through New Zealand hockey is incredibly encouraging, and we're looking forward to continuing to develop this group as we build towards the Oceania Cup.

"This squad has a great balance of skill, character and determination. We're excited to see what they can achieve together as they take the next step on their international journey."

Men's Head Coach Hemant Lala said the squad had earned the opportunity through strong performances and commitment throughout the selection process.

"The standard throughout the selection camp was extremely high, making for some difficult decisions. The players selected have demonstrated not only their ability, but also the attitude and work ethic required to represent New Zealand.

"We're looking forward to bringing this group together over the coming months and preparing for the challenge ahead. Qualifying for a Junior World Cup is a huge opportunity, and we're excited to see this team continue to grow."

The New Zealand Under-21 Men's squad is:

Aiden Bax, Baxter Mason, Ben Wigmore, Dean Clarkson, Fergus Oberlin-Brown, Finlay Neale, Foy Kerkin, Hamish Davenport, Harison Clulow, Mitchell Suddaby, Ollie Bowmar, Owen Brown, Richard Ruetsch, Ryan Caldwell, Scott Illerbrun, Seth Irons, Tanner Kusch, Will Roberts, Yash Khushal and Zach Gianotti.

The New Zealand Under-21 Women's squad is:

Cara Morrison, Charlie Wills, Charlotte Dunn-Hall, Emilie Gordon, Grace Aldridge, Gracie Potter, Greer Findlay, Jada Ropitini, Jodie Kent, Kate Irwin, Livvy Barker, Madison Cels, Murphy Phillips, Nicole Hollands, Nina Murphy, Penelope Taulafo, Pia Hohepa, Poppy Webb, Roimata Brown and Tamsin Lockie.

The Under-21 programme remains a vital part of Hockey New Zealand's high-performance pathway, helping identify and develop athletes capable of progressing to Junior World Cups, senior international hockey and ultimately the Vantage Black Sticks.