Ireland to remain in hockey Pro League after NZ withdrawal

Ireland beat New Zealand at this summer Olympic Games in Paris

Ireland men's hockey side will continue in world hockey's top division despite relegation last season.

New Zealand's decision to withdraw from this year's Pro League means that Mark Tumilty's side keep their top flight status for the incoming season.

Ireland, currently ranked ninth in the world, won two games - both against Belgium - in their debut year competing against the world's best nations and finished bottom of the standings.

"It is an excellent and invaluable opportunity to compete against the top nations in the world again," Tumilty said.

"It will give real impetus to our programme as we build on the progress made in 2024 and it will provide an opportunity for younger players to get exposure to matches against the top nations very early in the new Olympic cycle."

Tumilty's side will face Olympic gold medallists Netherlands, silver medallists Germany, bronze medallists India and last season's Pro League winners Australia.

Ireland's second consecutive season in the top flight will get under way in November, with Ireland playing their first fixtures in December in Argentina.

The tournament schedule runs until June 2025.

As a late entrant, Ireland will be the only team not to play home matches in the competition.