Pro League 2023-2024: USA to replace New Zealand

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Lausanne, Switzerland. The New Zealand women’s team will not participate in the next season of the FIH Hockey Pro League. This comes after Hockey New Zealand’s decision to pull out of the competition despite avoiding relegation on the field of play.

However, New Zealand’s governing body of hockey has made it clear that the team will try to rejoin the Hockey Pro League after 2024. To achieve this, the Black Sticks would need to win the Hockey Nations Cup, which is the qualification path for the Hockey Pro League.

As a result of New Zealand’s withdrawal, the United States, which had finished last in the recently concluded season, would retain their place among the participating nations for the following season.

Anthony Crummy, CEO of Hockey New Zealand, said, “As the founding country participating in the league, this was a difficult decision for us, but the right decision to ensure that we continue to be the most important event in our calendar for the Olympic Games.” are in the best position to qualify and prepare. Travel costs have doubled in the post-Covid environment, and the amount of travel combined with the timing of Season 5 events in a busy 2024 means qualifying for the Olympics It is not possible to participate in a Pro League while doing and preparing adequately.”

Simon Hoskins, USA Field Hockey’s executive director, said: “We are saddened to learn of the New Zealand women’s withdrawal. For the USA, we are excited for the opportunity to remain in the FIH Hockey Pro League. Will be watching so that we make a mark in Season 5.”

FIH will announce the final match schedule for the 2023-2024 FIH Hockey Pro League season shortly.

(IANS)

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