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BlackkkkkkkAction from the stunning surrounds at the Whaka 100 in Rotorua. PHOTO: WHAKA100 Two of New Zealand’s classic mountain bike participation events will double as Cycling New Zealand’s UCI Marathon MTB National Championships for the next four years. The Marathon MTB National titles will be decided at the Whaka 100 in Rotorua in 2025 and 2027, and the Tombstone Bike at Hanmer Springs in 2026 and 2028. LATEST HEADLINES: Black Caps easily beat Zimbabwe Mystics aim for record in netball final World Tennis Tour to be held in Hamilton Kane Williamson century for Middlesex All Blacks prop, Newell staying with NZR The Marathon MTB National Championship is the longest of the championship events, and is a selection race for the UCI Marathon World Championships. This year’s Marathon World Championships in September will be combined with the legendary Grand Raid BCVS which links from Verbier to Grimentz across the Valais Alps in the south of Switzerland. Nduro Events owner, Tim Farmer and his team manage both the Whaka 100 and Tombstone Bike and they keen to develop the status of the Marathon MTB Nationals as part of these two iconic annual events. Founded in 2007, the Whaka 100 has created a growing reputation as the toughest MTB marathon in the Southern Hemisphere. It is set in Rotorua’s Whakarewarewa Forest, Rotorua which is known for its mountain biking trails and is one of only six Gold Level IMBA ride centres in the world. This year’s event is set for 25-26 October. Farmer said that kiwi mountain bikers have a global status that is considerably greater than the size of the country, and its riders are producing world-class results in all disciplines of the sport. “This is a way we can pay some homage to our incredible riders and at the same time offer an opportunity for riders to chase national titles and potentially a world championship spot. And they can do this as part of our fantastic events at the Whaka 100 and Tombstone Bike.”

Tim Seifert has hit his econd consecutive half century as the Black Caps beat Zimbabwe PHOTO: ICC New Zealand has eased to a 60-run victory over Zimbabwe in their final Tri-Sations series group match in Harare. The Black Caps started strongly and didn't let up thanks to half centuries Tim Seifert his second consecutive for an eventual 75 runs and Rachin Ravindra 63, and the bowling talents of Ish Sodhi taking a career-best 4-12. LATEST HEADLINES: Mystics aim for record in netball final World Tennis Tour to be held in Hamilton Kane Williamson century for Middlesex All Blacks prop, Newell staying with NZR Jaber sticking with Wellington Phoenix They will now face South Africa in the final . Seifert reached 50 off 33 balls and with Ravindra put together a second-wicket partnership of 108 following the early wicket of Tim Robinson for 10. Mark Chapman went for no score before Michael Bracewel made 26 not out from 16 to take New Zealand reach 190-6 despite Richard Ngarava’s taking 4-34. Other batters were Bevon Jacobs for a no score, Mitchell Santer seven and Zak Foulkes not on Sodhi then rattled through Zimbabwe’s top order, removing Dion Myers for 22 Brian Bennett one and Clive Madande two early one Sodhi eventually finished with figures of 4-12 from four overs as the home team were dismissed fror 130. Foulkes took 3-14 from 3.5 overs while Will O'Rourke took two wickets and Matt Henry one. .

Reaching for the ANZ Premiership title, the Mystics and Tactix PHOTO: MICHAEL BRADLEY PHOTOGRAPHY/ANZ PREMIERSHIP Plenty on the line as the Mystics hots the Tactix in the ANZ Premiership Grand Final in Auckland with records at the fingertips of the defending champs. The two franches split results in the 2025 season, the Tactix winning the Round 4 meeting 61-50 in Rangiora and the Mystics winning the Round 10 match 70-56. LATEST HEADLINES: World Tennis Tour to be held in Hamilton Kane Williamson century for Middlesex All Blacks prop, Newell staying with NZR Jaber sticking with Wellington Phoenix Black Sticks Men no to FIH Pro League The Mystics advanced directly to the Grand Final after claiming their third ANZ Premiership Minor Premiership (2021, 2023 & 2025) with a record of nine wins and one loss. They played in three previous Grand Finals (2021, 2023 & 2024) for a 100 percent win record. The Mystics will become the most successful team in ANZ Premiership history if they claim the 2025 title.   Currently the Mystics (2021, 2023 & 2024) and Pulse 2019, 2020 & 2022) have both won three titles since the start of the competition in 2017. The Tactix are coming off a 57-52 victory over the Pulse in the Elimination Final on Sunday to advance to their third Grand Final while, but have never won the titleErikana Pederse the visiting sides captain has huge experience in the competition. She played 14 matches for the Mystics, 16 for the Pulse and has now played 100 matches for the Tactix since 2015. Pedersen made her debut for the Tactix in Round 1, 2015 against the Mystics in Christchurch. Donna Wilkins has led the Tactix to the Grand Final in her first season as Head Coach. Tia Winikerei is the most recent Head Coach to claim the title in her first season when she led the Mystics to the 2023 title. The only other Head Coach in National League history to win in their first season was Georgina Salter in 1998 with the Otago Rebels in the first ever season of franchise Netball. The game will be played Sunday 27 July at 4pm at the Trusts Arena, Henderson.

Fletcher Newell has signed to stay with the Crusaders and New Zealand Rugby PHOTO: LINTOTT PHOTOGRAPHY Crusaders and New Zealand Rugby have secured the future of promising prop Fletcher Newell re-signing through to 2028. “I'm extremely grateful to re-sign with the Crusaders, it's a team I grew up watching as a young kid. I've played rugby for as long as I can remember and would come to the games when I was a wee one,” said Newell. “I just love this team, and I wouldn't want to be with anyone else.” LATEST HEADLINES: Jaber sticking with Wellington Phoenix Black Sticks Men no to FIH Pro League NZ team named for World Aquatics Champs All Blacks midfelder stasy with NZ Rugby Netball NZ to allow overseas Silver Ferns The thing that keeps the 25-year-old coming back every day is the people. “We've got an amazing culture here at the Crusaders; not just the players, but all the management and back-room staff. You turn up every day, everyone wants to work hard for each other, which is one of my values that we all share. I just love coming in every day and working with these guys,” he said. Born and raised in North Canterbury, Newell joined the Crusaders Academy in 2018 whilst studying towards a Bachelor of Commerce. He became Crusader No 248 in 2021, something he says means a lot to him and his family. “We're here to represent the whole of the Crusaders region. There's a lot of people who would love to put on the Crusaders jersey, and we're so lucky that we're able to do it every week. “It means the world to me. Growing up wanting to be a Crusader and now being one, I'm just extremely grateful.” Newell made his All Blacks debut in 2022 and has just achieved 25 caps in the black jersey.

Kane Williamson in fine form for Middlesex in county cricket PHOTO: MIDDLESEX CRICKET Former Black Caps captain Kane Williamson has shown his skills for Middlesex in English county cricket. The 34-year-old scored a century off 147 balls featuring 12 fours and a six in his first class debut for Middlesex against Northamptonshire. LATEST HEADLINES: All Blacks prop, Newell staying with NZR Jaber sticking with Wellington Phoenix Black Sticks Men no to FIH Pro League NZ team named for World Aquatics Champs All Blacks midfelder stasy with NZ Rugby The Black Caps batter was 88 not out overnight and hten moved to his century early on the second morning. Williamson and Max Holden (151) took their mammoth 2nd wicket stand to 239 so eclipsing the 222 of Sydney Brown and Bill Edrich at Lord’s in 1949. Williamson was eventually dismissed for 114 as part of Middlesex's 625 for eight declared. Northamptonshire were 126-4 in reply. There were three consecutive Middlesex batters who made centures, opener Holden 151, Leus du Plooy 105 not out and Williamson. The century was Williamson's 44th first class century putting him equal with Bert Sutcliffe but behind Glenn Turner, Martin Crowe and John Wright.

Left to right: Jason Cargo (Waikato Tennis Trust Chair), Wayne Peterson (Waikato Tennis Regional Manager) David Cashmore (Director – Commercial Bayleys) PHOTO: TENNIS NZ A new ITF World Tennis Tour event is to be held in Hamilton in December this year to give New Zealand's rising players an opportunity at pro tennis. Players from around the world and Kiwis too will compete for ATP and WTA ranking points and a share of over $50,000 in prize money. LATEST HEADLINES: Kane Williamson century for Middlesex All Blacks prop, Newell staying with NZR Jaber sticking with Wellington Phoenix Black Sticks Men no to FIH Pro League NZ team named for World Aquatics Champs Hosted at the Waikato Tennis Centre, the venue is well known for its quality facilities and flexibility, with indoor courts available should weather affect the schedule. This ensures players and fans can enjoy uninterrupted tennis throughout the week. The event marks the first time since 2020 for women and 2009 for men that ITF pro events have been played in the Waikato. Wayne Peterson, Waikato Tennis Trust’s Regional Tennis Development Manager, says the tournament is a milestone for the region. “We are so proud to be hosting the World Tennis Tour in Hamilton. We believe the event has real scope to build and become a mainstay for the Waikato public and for the best up-and-coming players,” said Peterson, The tournament will be sponsored by Bayleys Real Estate will be know as the Bayleys Open and will be held  8-14 December 2025. It has also been supported through the Hamilton City Council Event Sponsorship Fund and Brian Perry Charitable Trust. The following week features the circuit moves to Papamoa for a second week of Futures.

The Black Sticks men win the FIH Nations Cup in Malaysia PHOTO: FIH NATIONS CUP Hockey New Zealand has confirmed the Black Sticks Men will not participate in the prestigious 2025–26 FIH Pro League, despite qualifying by winning the 2025 Nations Cup. This decision follows consultation with players, coaches, and key stakeholders, and reflects the current Pro League format’s misalignment with New Zealand’s high-performance goals. LATEST HEADLINES: NZ team named for World Aquatics Champs All Blacks midfelder stasy with NZ Rugby Netball NZ to allow overseas Silver Ferns Nicoll-Klokstad returns for Warriors vs Titans Black Foils spoil SailGP party in Portsmouth Hockey NZ has long advocated for a more flexible and inclusive Pro League model. While the FIH is reviewing the competition, no changes have yet been made. “The current format is expensive, travel-heavy, and limits home games,” says Ken Maplesden, Acting CEO of Hockey NZ. “It doesn’t support the sustainable, athlete-first programme we’re building in New Zealand.” The Vantage Black Sticks Women also declined their 2025–26 Pro League spot, earned by winning the Nations Cup in March, due to similar challenges. Both decisions underscore the structural barriers facing geographically remote nations like New Zealand in the current Pro League setup. “This wasn’t taken lightly,” Ken Maplesden continues. “We’re proud of what both teams achieved to qualify. But after consultation with athletes and staff, it became clear the Pro League isn’t workable for us right now.” New Zealand remains committed to competing at the highest level, with Nations Cup titles in 2024 and 2025 (Men) and 2025 (Women) reinforcing the country’s international competitiveness. Returning to the Pro League remains a goal, although in a way that doesn’t compromise a sustainable high-performance programme. Men’s Black Sticks Head Coach Greg Nicol reflects a bigger-picture commitment to sustainable, world-class preparation and long-term athlete success. “The players earned the right to compete, and we back them 100%. This decision is endorsing what we’re building, a world-class program that prioritises wellbeing, smart preparation, and long-term success. We want to play the best, but not at the cost of people or the programme. The decision is supported by the New Zealand Hockey Players Association (NZHPA). “The players desperately want to be part of top-level international hockey, and they’ve repeatedly proven they deserve to be there,” says Glen Sulzberger, NZHPA Executive Manager. “That right to participate should not come at such a high cost to them as players, and also to the game in New Zealand. What is clear is that the Pro League does not meet its original objectives, nor has it evolved to become a viable competition. The FIH is failing its duty to the game.” Players have expressed frustration at limited consultation in the FIH’s review of the Pro League. “Every player dreams of testing themselves against the best in the world,” says current Black Sticks player Sam Lane. “That’s why we play, so it’s disappointing not to be able to compete in the Pro League after the hard work put in to qualify again." “We understand the challenges with the league, and implore the FIH to properly engage and listen to what athletes have to say.” Hockey NZ said it remains focused on building a strong domestic and international calendar, including more home-and-away internationals, a strengthened Premier Hockey League, and preparation for the 2026 World Cup and 2028 Olympics. The 2025 Oceania Cup will also be a key milestone. “This isn’t a step back,” said Maplesden. “It’s a step forward on our terms. We’re committed to high performance, athlete wellbeing, and growing the game here in New Zealand.”

Defending champion Erika Fairweather is one of 12 swimmers representing New Zealand at the 2025 World Quatics Championships PHOTO: BW MEDIA Tweleve swimmers, including two defending World Champions, have arrived in Singapore for the 2025 World Aquatics Championships. The squad is a mix of seasoned athletes and rising talent, with six athletes set to make their Aquablack debut at the competition. LATEST HEADLINES: All Blacks midfelder stasy with NZ Rugby Netball NZ to allow overseas Silver Ferns Nicoll-Klokstad returns for Warriors vs Titans Black Foils spoil SailGP party in Portsmouth Amateur Emma Zheng wins in Nova Scotia Leading the team are defending World Champions Erika Fairweather (North Shore) and Lewis Clareburt (Club 37). The pair made history at the 2024 World Aquatic Championships, claiming New Zealand’s first ever world titles, with Fairweather winning the women’s 400m Freestyle and Clareburt the men’s 400m Individual Medley. The pair are joined by their Paris 2024 Olympic teammates Eve Thomas (Coast) and Caitlin Deans (Neptune & Swim Dunedin), as well as existing New Zealand representatives Andrew Jeffcoat (United), who returns for his fourth World Championships. Laura Quilter (Coast), a 2014 Commonwealth Games athlete making a return to the Aquablack team for the first time in 11 years. The Championships began on Saturday 19 July with the open water events, where Louis Clark (North Shore) made his debut in the brand new 3km knockout event, placing 19th in his heat in a time of 17:58.40. A further five athletes will make their New Zealand debut during the eight days of pool competition. Amber George and Finn Harland will contest the 50m and 100m Backstroke, Milana Tapper the 100m and 200m Freestyle, Savannah-Eve Martin the 50m Backstroke, and Zoe Pedersen the 50m Butterfly. Two-time Olympian Lewis Clareburt has spent time training and racing in Europe, before returning to New Zealand to put the final touches on his preparation. “It’s been cool because I've already had some international race experience before World Champs so I'm feeling ready and the preparation’s been going really well,” said Clareburt. He says despite being defending champion in the 400m Individual Medley, he’s not feeling the pressure. “My goal is to swim some fast times and enjoy the experience. The 400IM is going to be an amazing race. We've got Leon Marchand competing who is the world record holder, but the rest of the field is closing the gap between us and him, and I think I'm gonna be up there so I’m looking forward to it.” Hazel Ouwehand the fourth fastest butterfly swimming in the world elected not to be selected for the World Championships. Pool racing begins on Sunday 27 July, with daily heats from 2pm NZT and finals from 11pm NZT. Entries: Lewis Clareburt: 200m butterfly (1:57.06) 200m individual medley (entry time: 1:57.36) 400m individual medley (entry time: 4:10.44) Louis Clark: Men's 3km knockout open water Caitlin Deans: 800m freestyle (entry time: 8:29.32) 1500m freestyle (entry time: 16:12.18) Erika Fairweather 200m freestyle (enrty time: 1:55.45) 400m freestyle (entry time: 4:01.12) 800m freestyle (entry time: 8:21.67) Amber George 50m backstroke (entry time: 27.92) 100m backstroke (entry time: 1:00.84) Finn Harland 50m backstroke (entry time: 24.88) 100m backstroke (entry time: 54.74) Andrew Jeffcoat: 50m backstroke (entry time: 24.89) Savannah-Eve Martin 50m backstroke (entry time: 28.15) Zoe Pedersen 50m butterfly (entry time: 26.15) Laura Quilter 50m butterfly (entry time: 26.22) 50m freestyle (entry time: 25.26) Milana Tapper 100m freestyle (entry time: 54.94) 200m freestyle (entry time: 1:57.95) Eve Thomas 400m freestyle (entry time: 4:06.41) 1500m freestyle (16:07.46)

Tim Seifert made 66 not out for the Black Caps PHOTO: ZIMBABWE CRICKET A beligerent batting display fromTim Seifert has taken the Black Caps to a sevne wicket win over South Africa in the Tri-Series in Harare. Batting first South Africa scored 134-8 and in reply New Zealand replied with 135-3 with 25 balls to spare. LATEST HEADLINES: Nicoll-Klokstad returns for Titans clash Black Foils spoil SailGP party Portsmouth Amateur Emma Zheng wins in Nova Scotia Import Tacko Fall released by NZ Breakers Silver Ferns captain Ekenasio out for 2025 The best of the South African batters was opener RR Henricks with 44, however the Black Caps bowlers kept things well contained as Jacob Duffy, Adam Milne and Mich Santner all took two wickets each. Milne had the superb figurs of 2-21 from his four overs. At bat Dvon Conway made 19 runs, but it was hisopening partner Seifert who took control scoring 66 not out from 48 balls with six fours and two sixes. Rachin Ravindra was out for three and Mark Chapman 10 with Drayl Mitchell 20 not out. The seven-wicket victory was the fourth time in five games in the series to result in favour of the chasing team. The Black Caps will face Zimbbabwe on Thursday night (NZ time) and may hope to bat first as theywork toward the series final.

Tiama Jaber (left) has signed a contract extension with the Wellington Phoenix PHOTO: LINTOTT PHOTOGRAPHY Lebanon international Tiana Jaber believes the Wellington Phoenix provides the best environment for her to continue to grow as a footballer. She has signed a two-year contract extension with the Phoenix, extending her stay in Wellington until the end of 2026-27 A-League. LATEST HEADLINES: Black Sticks Men no to FIH Pro League NZ team named for World Aquatics Champs All Blacks midfelder stasy with NZ Rugby Netball NZ to allow overseas Silver Ferns Nicoll-Klokstad returns for Warriors vs Titans Jaber, 25, joined the club as an injury replacement midway through the 2023-24 season and has gone on to make 33 appearances after quickly establishing herself as an integral member of the women’s backline. She says it was an easy decision to recommit to the Phoenix. “I definitely have unfinished business with the club,” Jaber said. “I love the club, the country and the fans and I really want to win the league with the Phoenix. “With all of the new signings that are happening it was absolutely a no brainer to stay in Wellington. “I see myself growing and becoming a better footballer and person with the Phoenix.” Jaber is entering her seventh season in the A-League, having played for Western Sydney Wanderers, Newcastle Jets and Western United before moving to Wellington. She says the Phoenix have the most professional environment she’s experienced. “The staff and the way that they look after us players sets the club apart. “It’s honestly incredible. The staff are still in touch with us throughout the off-season and giving us all of the info we need. “I can’t see any other club on this side of the world looking after their players like that. “On top of that there’s a great vibe within the team and we have amazing facilities at NZCIS.” It is the first time Jaber has been offered a multi-year contract in her football career and she feels honoured. “I love that the Phoenix wants me to stay for the next two seasons. “It makes me feel so proud of everything I’ve achieved and that they back my footballing ability, so I really want to give back to the club. “I do still have the ambition to go overseas and explore and the Phoenix feels like it’s a step in the right direction.” Interim Phoenix head coach Amy Shepherd is thrilled Jaber has recommitted to the club. “We are excited to have Tiana return following an impressive season, during which she displayed tremendous passion and intensity in representing the Phoenix,” Shepherd said. “Her desire to continuously grow and improve as a player is something we greatly value. “We look forward to supporting her ongoing development, both at club level and as a national team player for Lebanon.” Jaber is the 18th player confirmed in the Wellington Phoenix women’s squad for the 2025-26 A-League, with further announcements to be made in the coming weeks.

Anton Lienert-Brown is staying with rugby in New Zealand PHOTO: NZR SUPPLIED/JOHN COWPLAND ACTION PRESS All Blacks midfielder Anton Lienert-Brown has extended his contract with New Zealand Rugby the Chiefs and Waikato through to the end of 2028. Lienert-Brown, whose existing contract ran through to the end of 2026, said his passion for the teams and communities he represents meant it was an easy decision to continue to play his rugby in Aotearoa for a further two seasons. LATEST HEADLINES: Netball NZ to allow overseas Silver Ferns Nicoll-Klokstad returns for Warriors vs Titans Black Foils spoil SailGP party in Portsmouth Amateur Emma Zheng wins in Nova Scotia Import Tacko Fall released by NZ Breakers “I’m excited to re-commit to New Zealand Rugby through to 2028. This year’s been frustrating with injuries outside of my control but pulling on the black jersey again last Saturday reminded me just how special this journey really is. Representing Waikato, the Chiefs, and my country is something I never take for granted. My decision to stay reflects my commitment, not just to the teams I play for, but to giving everything I’ve got to the work that lies ahead.” With 86-Test caps for the All Blacks since his debut against Australia in 2016, 126 appearances for the Gallagher Chiefs during 12 Super Rugby campaigns, and a further 22 matches for Waikato in the Bunnings Warehouse National Provincial Championship Lienert-Brown has been one of the most consistent players in New Zealand over the past decade. He will activate an existing sabbatical clause in his contract next season to join fellow All Black Ardie Savea at the Kobelco Kobe Steelers in Japan League One. The pair will return to New Zealand at the conclusion of the Japanese season and be available for the All Blacks July series in 2026. All Blacks Head Coach Scott Robertson praised Lienert-Brown's committment to the sport over the years. “Anton is a true professional and a player who embodies the values of the All Blacks jersey. His experience, composure, and clarity in the midfield are hugely valuable. He’s overcome injury setbacks in recent years and has shown real resilience. We’re thrilled to have him locked in through to 2028, and the experience he’ll gain in Japan will only enhance his game and leadership.” Chiefs Head Coach Jono Gibbes was keen to see him in his sides jersey in the future. “Anton is a massive asset to the Gallagher Chiefs, and this sabbatical is a great opportunity for him to experience a different rugby environment and learn from a new playing style. I look forward to seeing how this experience shapes him as a player and what he brings back to the team.”

More Silver Ferns players will be able to play abroad and maintain national eligibility. PHOTO: NETBALL NZ The board of Netball New Zealand (NNZ) has reviewed the Silver Ferns selection policy and updated the eligibility criteria, paving the way for greater flexibility for athletes who wish to play overseas while still maintaining the integrity of national selection. The revised criteria will now allow athletes playing abroad the opportunity to be considered for Silver Ferns selection through a formal exemption process. LATEST HEADLINES: Nicoll-Klokstad returns for Warriors vs Titans Black Foils spoil SailGP party in Portsmouth Amateur Emma Zheng wins in Nova Scotia Import Tacko Fall released by NZ Breakers Silver Ferns captain Ekenasio out for 2025 The update reflects the evolving nature of elite netball globally and NNZ’s commitment to supporting athlete welfare, performance, and long-term development NNZ board chair Matt Whineray said the Board recognised the need for a more flexible and responsive approach. “We’ve listened to the game and believe this is a positive step forward,” said Whineray. “This update strikes a balance between flexibility and fairness, acknowledging the increasingly global nature of netball while continuing to protect the integrity of our domestic competitions and the mana of the Silver Ferns. NNZ chief executive Jennie Wyllie said the change ensured athletes were supported through clear and transparent decision-making. “Ultimately, the purpose of this proposed process is to ensure that all exemption requests are evaluated fairly, consistently, and transparently,” said Wyllie. “It safeguards the athlete through a structured and transparent approach, while upholding the broader interests of Netball New Zealand, the Silver Ferns, and the ANZ Premiership competition.” NNZ will implement the updated criteria ahead of the upcoming international season, with clear guidelines and assessment measures for any exemption applications.