"VAN" (Sports Desk - 29.09.2026) :: From 1 to 4 October 2026, the top junior men’s and women’s hockey teams from Oceania will square off in the Oceania Junior World Cup Qualifier 2026, renewing one of world hockey’s fiercest rivalries in the lead up to the upcoming FIH Hockey Junior World Cups 2027. With only continental powerhouses Australia and New Zealand entered across both divisions, the competition will be contested across an intense three-match series in both the men’s and women’s competitions. Men’s Competition In the men's event, the Burras (Australia U21) and the Junior Black Sticks Men (New Zealand U21) will face off in a three-game series across four days: Match 1: 1 October 2026 Match 2: 3 October 2026 Match 3: 4 October 2026 With three points awarded for a win and one for a draw, the team finishing atop the standings at the conclusion of the series will claim regional bragging rights and continental silverware. Women’s Competition In the women's event, the Jillaroos (Australia U21) and the Junior Black Sticks Women (New Zealand U21) will similarly do battle over three head-to-head fixtures: Match 1: 1 October 2026 Match 2: 3 October 2026 Match 3: 4 October 2026 Both sides will bring their best young talent to the pitch, eager to make a continental statement ahead of the global showpiece.
On Tue, Sep 29, 2026
On Mon, Sep 28, 2026