New Zealand replaces India as Champions Trophy host

The Hindu It is always tough to move an event out of any country, but I have to say that the silver lining is the bid from New Zealand: FIH president Leandro Negre. File photo
The International Hockey Federation (FIH) said on Tuesday that the 2011 Champions Trophy would be held in New Zealand.

The FIH had earlier taken away the right to host the tournament from India over internal problems surrounding the organization of hockey in India.

In a statement released in Lausanne on Tuesday the FIH said that they were pleased that New Zealand had offered to host the tournament.

“It is always tough to move an event out of any country, but I have to say that the silver lining is the bid from New Zealand,” FIH president Leandro Negre said.

“New Zealand will put on a first—rate Champions Trophy and has been extremely flexible and professional given the tough circumstances and tight timeline. I know that they will do an excellent job hosting the event.” New Zealand is currently hosting the rugby World Cup and hockey officials in that country said they regarded it as a privilege to host the tournament.

“We have the structure in place and with work already underway, we are confident that we can deliver a world—class event in a short timeframe,” the chief executive of Hockey New Zealand Hilary Poole said.

The Champions Trophy is the most prestigious annual competition organized by the FIH, with the top hockey—playing countries participating. It will now be held in New Zealand December 3 — 11.

New Zealand will also replace India as a participant in the tournament, with India being given a place in the Champions Challenge in South Africa.