Ukich, 23, is understood to have impressed in Croatia’s top division, where his performances have put him into contention for international football. The move represents a significant step for a defender developing outside New Zealand’s domestic competition.
His challenge now is to translate that club form into an international setting. The All Whites’ opening fixtures offer two different tests, with Palestine first and hosts China four days later.
A debut in either match would give Ukich an early opportunity to compete for a longer-term place in the national-team setup.
The reported squad provides a strong framework around the first-time call-up. Chris Wood is listed as captain, while the group also includes overseas-based players such as Tyler Bindon, Eli Just, Marko Stamenic, Ben Old and Finn Surman.
Domestic representation is also prominent:
That balance should give Ukich both senior guidance and a realistic pathway to minutes.
After the China fixtures, New Zealand are due to travel to Japan for the 2026 Kirin Cup. The schedule is expected to become more demanding, with Panama followed by either Ecuador or Japan.
The range of opposition makes the tour valuable beyond one debut. For Ukich, the immediate storyline is whether his Croatian form earns him a first cap and begins a sustained international run.