Tauranga's homegrown Black Sticks international Andy Hayward is excited about the prospect of playing against Japan in a three-test series to take place at the Tauranga Hockey Centre from March 12-15.
The former Tauranga Boys' College star missed the successful silver medal campaign at the World League Final in New Delhi, so is even more determined to get his starting spot back in the Black Sticks.
"I think this series is very important from a team perspective, as it is a pretty big year coming up with the World Cup in May/June and then the Commonwealth Games in July/August," Hayward said.
"But also personally I have not played for the team since June last year, as I have had a few injuries and sometimes work commitments come first, so it is exciting to be back in the team."
Hayward is highly impressed with the world-class turfs and lights at the Tauranga Hockey Centre, which means the Black Sticks will hopefully play regular series here.