Tasmania’s international hockey talisman Eddie Ockenden believes this week’s Darwin International Open will give the all-conquering Kookaburras a vital tune-up ahead of the World Cup.
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Ockenden is co-captain of a side featuring fellow Hobartians Josh Beltz and Jack Welch that is preparing to defend its World Cup title in Bhubaneswar, India, in November and December.
The world No.1 ranked team will host Rio Olympic gold medallists Argentina (world no.2) and Asian Games winners Japan (16th) and runners-up Malaysia (12th) in the tournament which kicked off on Tuesday evening and runs until Saturday.
Ockenden said the tournament is a priceless opportunity.
“Having good competition is crucial,” the 31-year-old triple Olympian said.
“Being in Australia we’re a little bit isolated so it’s hard to get quality games consistently.
“We have to make the most of these five games in Darwin. It’s fantastic to be here to prepare for the World Cup and play some great games against some really good opposition.
“The Argentineans are so skilful and the Japanese and Malaysians are pretty similar.
“It’s incredible to watch and great for us to practice against three different teams.”
Jim session
An injury to former Launceston all-rounder James Faulkner has seen new signing Gurinder Sandhu drafted into Tasmania’s one-day cup squad.
The NSW paceman was a surprise omission from the Adam Griffith-coached squad for Wednesday’s opener against Victoria in Townsville but received a late call-up when the competition’s technical committee approved a request from the Tigers.
Faulkner was injured during Lancashire’s T20 Blast semi-final at Edgbaston on Saturday.
Tasmania will also play Queensland on Saturday, NSW next Tuesday, South Australia (September 27) and Western Australia (October 1).
Net profit
Grand Slam mixed doubles champion Casey Dellacqua will be the guest of honour at the Tasmanian Tennis awards in Burnie on Saturday.
General manager Darren Sturgess said the function will celebrate a positive year of growth in the state.
“We are really impressed with the quality of nominations across the 10 award categories and looking forward to uniting the Tasmanian tennis community to celebrate all nominees and announce our deserving winners,” he said.
Rob Shaw
Heralding the impact of Tasmanian sport without saying "punching above its weight" is not as easy as it sounds.
Heralding the impact of Tasmanian sport without saying "punching above its weight" is not as easy as it sounds.
