*This story was originally published by Hockey Australia*
In their quest for a fourth World Cup title, Hockey Australia is today excited to confirm the Kookaburras squad for the 2026 FIH Hockey World Cup, to be played across Belgium and the Netherlands from 15-30 August.
The tournament returns to Europe for the first time since Australia’s memorable 2014 World Cup triumph, with the Kookaburras based in Belgium for what will be a showcase of international hockey.
Head Coach Mark Hager said the selected group had earned the opportunity to represent Australia on the sport’s biggest stage after a strong international season.
“Every World Cup is unique, and earning selection in an Australian team is something every player works incredibly hard for. The group we’ve selected has shown throughout the year that they have the commitment, resilience and quality required to compete on the biggest stage.”
“We’ve built strong depth across the squad, with experienced players who have performed at the highest level alongside exciting younger athletes who have embraced every opportunity in the green and gold.”
Hager said Australia’s recent performances had laid a strong foundation heading into the tournament.
“The FIH Pro League gave us valuable opportunities to test ourselves against the world’s best teams, and we’ve continued to grow as a group with every campaign. We’ve been building towards this tournament for a long time.”
“A World Cup is about performing when it matters most. We know the challenge ahead, but we’re excited by what’s possible. This group is hungry, they’re connected, and they’re ready to represent Australia with pride.”
2026 Kookaburras FIH Hockey World Cup Squad
Jayden Atkinson (QLD)
Tim Brand (NSW)
Joshua Beltz (TAS)
Hayden Beltz (TAS)
James Collins (WA)
Tom Craig (NSW)
Nathan Ephraums (VIC)
Campbell Geddes (WA)
Blake Govers (NSW)
Jeremy Hayward (NT)
Liam Henderson (VIC)
Tim Howard (QLD)
Craig Marais (VIC)
Connar Otterbach (VIC)
Joel Rintala (QLD)
Lachlan Sharp (NSW)
Jed Snowden (VIC)
Ash Thomas (NSW)
Jack Welch (TAS)
Ky Willott (NSW)
Non-Travelling Reserves
Davis Atkin (ACT)
Cooper Burns (VIC)
Nathan Czinner (NSW)
Dylan Downey (NSW)
Ian Grobbelaar (WA)
Anand Gupte (ACT)
Magnus McCausland (TAS)
Lachlan Rogers (TAS)
Australia has been drawn in Pool C alongside Spain, Ireland and South Africa, with the top two teams progressing to out of the pool stages as the Kookaburras begin their pursuit of a fourth FIH Hockey World Cup title.
The Kookaburras will open their World Cup campaign in Wavre on August 16 when they face Ireland in their first pool match of the tournament. Find the match schedule here.
