He could have, perhaps, been one of the members of the New Zealand cricket team had he continued playing cricket, but when a call to attend the national hockey camp came his way, James Coughlan, didn’t think twice before accepting that offer.

“When I was about 18 or 19, just out of school, I had to make a choice between cricket and hockey. I was a good cricket player and had represented regional team. But when I got a call for the national hockey team, I straightaway chose hockey over cricket, says 24-year old James Coughlan after his match against Canada, which the New Zealand won 5-0.”

“There is more money in cricket than hockey. But today, I am pleased with the decision I made. I am very happy to represent my country in Malaysia.”

James has represented his state team and has played alongside cricket stars like Corey Anderson. And as his parents Maureen and Ken point out, James is also fond of surfing, though he isn’t a professional.

“James likes to surf and has played regional level cricket. But, he chose hockey over everything. We never had any problem with his decision. As long as he is enjoying, it is well and good,” said Maureen, James’ mother.

New Zealand, who so far is the unbeaten team in the World Cup with victories against Malaysia, India and Canada, says the tactics of taking one match at a time helped them get the desired results.

“We wanted to focus on one match at a time and by doing that, we have been able to win all the matches that we played so far.’

The Blacksticks will next face Australia in the Azlan Shah cup. And in that match, James wants to avenge the defeat of the cricket team in final of the World Cup.

“We weren’t even close in the final against Australia in the cricket World Cup. It was embarrassing to watch that match. We will try to reverse that in hockey. But, let’s not forget, Australia is the World Champions in hockey too.”