Black Sticks Take Third

December 1, 2025

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The New Zealand men’s hockey team, the Black Sticks, claimed third place at the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup in Malaysia by beating the host team 6-1. The match took place during the tournament’s final round, where Belgium went on to win the title after a close 1-0 victory over India.

Sam Lane was the star of the match, scoring five of New Zealand’s six goals. He began strongly with two goals in the first quarter. Later, he added three more in just 15 minutes—one from a penalty corner, one from open play, and another from a penalty stroke. Lane finished the tournament as the top goal scorer with nine goals in total.

James Hickton also had a moment to remember, scoring his first-ever international goal after a 60-metre run and a tricky reverse-stick shot.

Two players reached important milestones during the match. Malachi Buschl played his 50th game for the Black Sticks, and Lane’s performance took him to 51 international goals in his career.

This strong finish was a proud moment for the New Zealand team, ending the tournament on a high note

Article written by Shem Banbury - Kiwi Kids News Editor

This article was written using AI as an assistive tool for research, writing, and proofreading.
The te reo Māori version of this article was translated with AI assistance. While care has been taken to keep it accurate, if you spot anything that doesn't read quite right, please let us know

Learning Options

Recall Questions

Thinking questions

Digital Thinking

Learning Options

Recall Questions

Thinking questions

Digital Thinking

After a three-day camp in the Tararua Range, Ben wrote in his diary that the first day was the hardest because of the long walk uphill and the heavy packs. By the second day, his group worked better together when setting up tents and cooking meals. He said the night walk was memorable because the bush sounded different in the dark. On the final morning, everyone was tired but proud. Ben concluded that the camp was challenging, yet it helped the class become more confident and cooperative.

Which is the best summary of Ben’s diary entry?

The camp was difficult at first, but it helped Ben’s class work together and gain confidence. Three days in the Tararua Range left everyone tired, but the tents were set up successfully. Ben’s group struggled with heavy packs, enjoyed a night walk, and ate meals together at camp. Ben thought the night walk was the best part because the bush sounded different in the dark.