New Zealand Fast Bowler Blair Tickner endured a heartbreaking setback on the opening day of the NZ vs WI 2nd Test in Wellington, where he was taken to hospital after suffering a nasty shoulder injury. The incident overshadowed what had been his most impressive day in Test cricket, as Blair Tickner delivered a brilliant spell before a painful fall forced him off the field on a stretcher.
New Zealand had dominated the West Indies by bowling them out for 205, and closed the day at 24/0, but the injury to New Zealand Fast Bowler Blair Tickner left both the team and fans deeply concerned.
Before the injury, New Zealand Fast Bowler Blair Tickner was the standout performer of the day. In his comeback Test, he produced a magnificent spell of 4/32 from 16 overs, troubling the West Indies with his accuracy, bounce, and tight lines. His breakthrough came at a crucial moment after the visitors had reached a strong 66/0.
Tickner dismissed two batters in quick succession, triggering a collapse that saw the West Indies go from 175/4 to 205 all out. Supported well by debutant Michael Rae, who claimed 3/67, Tickner’s bowling helped the home team take command of the Test early on.
But Tickner’s impressive day took a devastating turn when he attempted a diving stop near the boundary rope. He landed heavily on his left shoulder and lay motionless, leading to immediate concern from teammates, officials and the medical staff.
The medics rushed to him, stabilised the injured shoulder, and after several tense minutes, Blair Tickner was stretchered off and taken to hospital in an ambulance for further scans and evaluation.
Emotional Weight Behind Tickner’s Comeback and New Injury Blow
The injury to New Zealand Fast Bowler Blair Tickner is even more heartbreaking considering the personal struggles he has faced over the past two years. Just days earlier, he had spoken publicly about the emotional challenges that affected his early Test career.
New Zealand Fast Bowler Blair Tickner revealed that his father’s house was destroyed during Cyclone Gabrielle shortly before his Test debut in 2023. Later, while playing county cricket for Derbyshire in 2024, he learned—moments before walking onto the field—that his wife Sarah had been diagnosed with leukaemia. With Derbyshire unable to arrange a replacement, he was forced to play the match while commuting between the ground and the hospital.
He later said, “Things are bigger than cricket,” when reflecting on that difficult period. His wife underwent chemotherapy while pregnant, and is now in remission, continuing regular treatment. Tickner credited her strength and resilience for helping him continue his cricketing journey.
What Tickner’s Injury Means for New Zealand’s Bowling Unit
New Zealand Fast Bowler Blair Tickner’s injury comes at a time when the Black Caps are already struggling with a depleted pace attack. Several frontline fast bowlers—including Matt Henry, Will O’Rourke, Ben Sears, Nathan Smith, and Kyle Jamieson—are unavailable due to injuries.
With the fast-bowling group stretched thin, Tickner’s setback leaves the team with even fewer options as the series progresses. The Test series is level after the draw in Christchurch, and the third Test in Mount Maunganui begins on December 18, making Tickner’s diagnosis a pressing concern.
Despite the setback, New Zealand ended Day 1 in a strong position, reaching 24/0 with captain Tom Latham on 7* and Devon Conway on 16*. But the mood remained overshadowed by uncertainty surrounding Tickner’s condition and availability for the remainder of the series.
FAQs :
1. What injury did New Zealand Fast Bowler Blair Tickner suffer?
New Zealand Fast Bowler Blair Tickner suffered a serious left-shoulder injury after a heavy fall while fielding during the NZ vs WI 2nd Test.
2. Was Blair Tickner‘s injury serious ?
Yes, he was stretchered off the field and taken to the hospital in an ambulance for further evaluation and scans.
3. How has New Zealand Fast Bowler Blair Tickner performing in the season?
He was the best bowler for New Zealand, taking 4/32 and sparking a West Indies collapse from 175/4 to 205 all out.
4. Will Blair Tickner play the rest of the Test series?
His participation depends on medical reports. New Zealand are awaiting updates from specialists before making a decision.
5. Why is Blair Tickner’s injury a major setback for the team?
New Zealand already have several key fast bowlers injured, and losing Tickner further weakens their pace attack for the series.
