Hockey: Black Sticks primed ahead of Hawke's Bay Cup

Stacey Michelsen celebrates scoring with her Black Sticks teammates. Photo / Getty Images

A tough physical examination has the women's Black Sticks primed ahead of the Hawke's Bay Cup.

New Zealand goes into the eight-team tournament beginning this weekend on the back of comprehensive wins over Canada.

Midfielder Stacey Michelsen says while the score lines in each match were comfortable, the two games tested them physically.

She says the likes of Canada force them told their ground when tackled and treasure the possession.

New Zealand is the second ranked team at the tournament, behind third ranked Australia.