Irish women's hockey squad named

Ireland women’s coach Riet Kuper has omitted three experienced internationals from her training squad, which travels to Spain next month, in order to give younger players a chance.

Lynsey McVicker (Ballymoney), Jenny Burke (Hermes) and Linda Caulfield (Hermes) will all be left at home when the 23-strong group goes to Barcelona on January 25 to train and play practice matches against Holland.

Deirdre Casey (Cork Church of Ireland) was not considered due to exam commitments while Jill Orbinson (Portadown) is in Australia, although she will be available for this summer’s European Nations Cup which Ireland are hosting.

Squad: S Beaney, J McDonough (Belfast Harlequins); H Bowe, E Stewart (Armagh); E Bromell (Catholic Institute); F Connery, J Hodgins (Hermes); E Cregan (UL); K Farrell (Waterford); M Goode (Pembroke Wanderers); L Healy, C McKean, L O’Neill, N Symmons, O Ryan (Loreto); K Maybin, K McCollum (Pegasus); N McCaughern, B McKeever, A Platt (Ballymoney); C Murphy (Old Alex); C O’Brien (Railway Union); C Parkhill (Randalstown).