Swindon Wildcats’ Ben Clarke-Leach named for European Cup of Nations
Great Britain to host ice hockey tournament in Edinburgh next week
Last updated 29th Jan 2026
Swindon Wildcats’ 18-year-old Ben Clarke-Leach has been included in Great Britain's squad for the IIHF European Cup of Nations, which takes place next week at Murrayfield Ice Rink in Edinburgh.
The tournament from 5th to 7th February will see GB play against Poland, Slovenia, and Ukraine across three days of intense competition.
Clarke-Leach, part of the NextGen development process, earned his call-up following impressive performances at the men’s U20 World Championship in Bucharest earlier this month, where he was named Netminder of the Tournament as GB secured silver.
Experienced players and fresh faces in the squad
GB captain Robert Dowd described the squad as a mix of seasoned players and promising young talent. The roster includes netminders Ben Bowns and Jackson Whistle, who have 137 international caps between them, as well as notable defensive and forward players such as Nathanael Halbert, Liam Kirk, and Josh Waller.
Several first-time call-ups have been made, including Jake Hayward, Alex Rimko, and Ivan Björkly Nordström, as part of Ice Hockey UK's commitment to nurturing the next generation.
Grant King, Interim CEO for Ice Hockey UK, said the inclusion of emerging talents like Clarke-Leach reflects their philosophy of developing young players by integrating them with experienced figures in the sport.
European Cup of Nations schedule
The tournament will begin on Thursday, 5th February, with Great Britain facing Ukraine at 18:30. Matches will continue on Friday and Saturday, with each day offering the chance to see GB in action against major international competitors.
Tickets for individual days are available for £20 for adults and £12 for concessions and children under-16.
Great Britain will head to the tournament with preparations for the World Championship in Switzerland already underway, which takes place less than four months from now.