A major leg injury to key midfielder, Ryan Archibald, over the weekend has cast some serious doubts on his availability for the NZ Men’s Hockey team in Athens.
Archibald, who is regarded as one of the most talented members of the team with 127 caps at the age of only 23, suffered a hit just below the knee during a national squad practice match over Queen’s Birthday weekend.
Archibald suffered a compound fracture of the tibia, the impact of the stick compressing the bone. It has not been required for a rod be inserted.
The Aucklander is currently being monitored by Hockey’s Medical Director Dr Tony Edwards, whether there is enough time for Athens remains to be seen.
Kevin Towns, National Coach, said: “I am keen to give Ryan as much time as necessary to see if there is any chance that he would be fit for Athens.”
The New Zealand Olympic Committee is due to name the Men’s Olympic team shortly, a team that would most likely have included Archibald.
The NZHF will be talking to the International Hockey Federation and checking the rules regarding the timing to make replacements.
In the meantime Towns will look at possible replacements to ensure the right mix for the team.
Ryan Archibald plays either left or right inside forward and provides backup for centre half Simon Towns. Rotation of players will be essential in the heat of Athens.
“The injury poses selection issues and will change the balance of the team,” says Kevin Towns.
The New Zealand Men’s team has been extremely unlucky during their most recent buildup to Athens with three broken bones suffered inside of five weeks. There have been a number of injuries to players, but none as major as Archibald’s.
Captain Simon Towns (centre half), Auckland, broke his finger in a club game on May 31. He has since maintained physical training, replicating game intensity using a heart rate monitor.
Auckland defender Dean Couzins broke his ankle on May 16, during a training game. His plaster will be removed in two weeks and he will begin weight bearing. He has maintained his aerobic fitness base.
Auckland striker Bevan Hari is working his way back to fitness after knee reconstruction earlier this year. Hari damaged his medial and anterior ligaments in last year’s Lion Foundation New Zealand Hockey League final.