Hockey: Easier road to Olympics for NZ

Both the men's and women's Black Sticks teams have an easy ride into the London Olympics. Photo / Getty Images

The New Zealand men's and women's hockey teams' road to the 2012 London Olympics has been smoothened considerably after the sport's controlling body, the FIH, confirmed that two teams each from Oceania will be granted direct qualification.

This means that New Zealand, whose toughest opponents in the region are Australia, are likely to qualify via the Oceania Cup rather than from one of several qualifying tournaments early in 2012.

Coach Shane McLeod welcomed the decision.

"Having two spots available in Oceania is fantastic news.

"With Australia and New Zealand being the two dominant teams competing at the Oceania Cup, the chances of New Zealand being beaten by another Pacific nation are extremely unlikely."

The recent change in ruling by the FIH means there is one less spot available for a European country to qualify.

"To have a clearer qualification path is a great boost for our high performance programme," McLeod said.

"It means we can focus on getting top international test experience rather than aiming to qualify for the Olympics.

"It also provides certainty for our more experienced players and gives younger team members a chance to really prove that they should be part of an Olympic team."

The Oceania Cup will be held in Australia in October next year.

- NZPA