Kookaburras Turn Mind to Selection After Korea Series

Published On: 14 June 2012

Fergus Kavanagh is expected to gain Olympic selection despite currently having a minor injury

Just days before Olympic selection, the world’s number one hockey team has proved it will be tougher than ever to cull its 28 man squad to 16.

The Kookaburras finished a four test series against South Korea with three convincing wins and a draw today with many of their key players, including five time world player of the year, Jamie Dwyer injured.

Simon Orchard, Matthew Butturini, Matthew Swann, Liam De Young, Rob Hammond and Fergus Kavanagh (WAIS) are also injured but should all be fit before the London Games.

With so many injured it has been an almost impossible task to select the final Olympic team that will be announced on Monday.

“The strength of the squad speaks for itself, it is going to be a really tough selection and injuries are always a factor,” Kookaburra’s Assistant Coach Paul Gaudoin said.

It today’s match, Korea got the hop on the Kookaburras when Hyun Woo sent home a penalty corner just three minutes in.

It wasn’t long before Australia retaliated through co-captain Mark Knowles, who sent home a spectacular goal at 15 minutes.

Chris Ciriello found the top corner off a drag flick in the second before the Koreans responded to level the match at 2-2 through Hyesung.

After the Olympic team is announced the Kookaburras and an extended squad will travel to Cairns from 19-26 June for a three test series against New Zealand.

This will be the last chance to see Australia in international competition before the Games begin!

– Hockey Australia