Phoenix set for Indian adventure

Phoenix will take part in a four-team tournament, taking on United Sikkim, a yet to be confirmed I-League team, Shillong Lajong and then the tournament final or third-fourth play-off.

"We have struggled for meaningful pre-season games at times in the past and this will give our players a real workout," Phoenix coach Ricki Herbert said.

"Some of the boys from our School of Excellence will be on the trip and it will be a great experience for them, as well as giving the coaching staff an opportunity to assess their progress against good teams in a challenging environment.

"With two under-21 spots still to be filled it also gives them a chance to put their hand up for a playing contract.

"Also it will provide an opportunity for the new players and staff to bond."

Before heading to India, Phoenix takes on Newcastle Jets in Weston, New South Wales on 18 August, and then kicks off its Indian adventure with a game against United Sikkim in Guwahati on 24 August.

Two days later the A-League club takes on a yet to be confirmed I-League team in Imphal before meeting Shillong Lajong at Shillong's Nehru Stadium on 30 August.

The tournament final or third-fourth play-off will complete the visit on 1 September, also in Shillong.

On its return to New Zealand, Phoenix will complete its pre-season programme against A-League newcomer Western Sydney Wanderers at Christchurch's AMI Stadium on 23 September.