Hockey: Striker returns to Australian team for hockey tour

Star striker Alyson Annan is back in the Australian women's hockey team for the first time since winning a second Olympic gold medal last year.

Annan has been named as vice-captain for the three-test tour to New Zealand this month after returning from a six-month stint in Europe.

With her 218 caps, the three-time Olympian will add a wealth of experience as new coach David Bell continues to experiment and rebuild the Hockeyroos. Striker Katrina Powell, another dual Olympic gold medallist, will captain the side.

The tests are in Wellington on July 27, in Auckland the following day and in Hamilton on July 29.