KEY POINTS:
North Harbour defender Lizzy Igasan has been named as the new captain of the New Zealand women's hockey team.
Her appointment was announced today ahead of the team's departure for Hong Kong and a three-match series.
The Black Sticks play Korea on August 28, China on August 29 and India on August 31 as they prepare for the Oceania Cup on Australia's Sunshine Coast from September 11-16.
New Zealand coach Kevin Towns said Igasan's appointment recognised her on-field record.
"She is clearly a world-class player and has shown in the past that she has the ability to lead during critical moments in the game," he said.
"The need for on-field leadership is an important component in any team."
As well as captaining the side in Hong Kong, Igasan, 24, will also reach an historic milestone at the Oceania Cup where she is due to record her 100th appearance for New Zealand.
The Oceania Cup, the region's qualifying tournament for the 2008 Beijing Olympics, will be contested by Australia, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea and Fiji.
The top two will qualify for Beijing.
- NZPA
