Wellington striker Phil Burrows was named today as the new captain of the New Zealand men’s team.

After a period of experimentation following Ryan Archibald’s decision to step aside as captain this year, Black Sticks Coach Shane McLeod has confirmed Burrows to lead the team through the busy upcoming program.

“Phil has led the team before when Ryan has not been playing and has done a good job,” McLeod says. “He is a natural leader and complements our coaching style in the way he deals with people. There is a good balance.”

Burrows is looking forward to the challenges ahead. “I enjoy the ‘on the field leadership’ in particular. We have a very good group of players to take on the hurdles ahead.”

The Black Sticks take on the Malaysian Men in a four test series from 7-17 August in Palmerston North, Taupo and Napier in preparation for the Oceania Cup in Invercargill from 25 – 29 August. The winner of the Oceania Cup, contested by New Zealand, Australia and Samoa will gain direct entry to next year’s FIH World Cup.

Source: Hockey New Zealand