Hockey: Archibald rules out return to Black Sticks

Ryan Archibald. Photo / Getty Images.

Former New Zealand men's hockey captain Ryan Archibald has ruled out an immediate return to the national squad but says he hasn't made a decision about a possible return for the World Cup or Commonwealth Games.

The 32-year-old who has played more than 250 internationals for the Black Sticks will play for Auckland in the National Hockey League but said his career was now his priority ahead of hockey. He had planned to retire from international hockey after last year's disappointing Olympic campaign but playing in the NHL helps to keep his options open.

Archibald has been one of New Zealand's best players over the past decade and in 2008 was selected for the World All Stars and was a finalist for the prestigious Euro Hockey MVP award.