Blair Tickner shares family journey and Wellington ODI plans against India.
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Tickner Embraces Joy
Blair Tickner has had a challenging two years off the field but is now looking to take wickets and bring some smiles while in Wellington.
New Zealand fast bowler Blair Tickner spoke on the eve of the second ODI against India about how his family’s health crisis has changed his outlook on life and cricket. Although he is still very competitive, Tickner has found clarity.
Background: Health crisis for the family
In April 2024, Tickner’s wife Sarah was diagnosed with leukaemia, and they went through 8 months of intense treatment. However, they had a very emotional end to this as Sarah was released from hospital on Christmas Eve 2024. She has been in remission since.
“This has given me clarity and appreciation. I know early in my career I was quite pressured but being there for my wife has changed that.”
- New goal: Enjoy the game and just be me.
- Play with a smile on my face.
- Cricket has given me a lot but it’s not the main thing in my life anymore.
- My biggest win is going home to my wife and daughter at the end of the day.
Late fire from number 11
Although the series opener at Eden Park had a lot of rain and India dominated with bat and ball, Tickner brought some joy to the home crowd.
Batting at number 11, Tickner scored 34 from 23 balls and formed a 41-run partnership with Jacob Duffy at the death. “I want a promotion. I’m going to jump ahead of Jacob and work my way up to number 3.”
Stats Snapshot
| Match | Role | Contribution | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| ODI vs India, Auckland (1st ODI) | No. 11 batter | 34 off 23 balls; 41-run last-wicket stand with Duffy | India dominant in rain-affected game |
| ODI vs England, Wellington | Bowler / lower-order batter | 4 wickets, 18 not out; Player of the Match | New Zealand won by 2 wickets |
Venue comparison
| Feature | Eden Park, Auckland | Wellington |
|---|---|---|
| Straight boundaries | Unusually short | Significantly longer |
| Square boundaries | Longer than the straight ones | Much shorter |
| Impact | Favours big hitting down the ground | Rewards pace and seam movement |
Key Takeaways: Tactical Insight
Wellington is a good place for Tickner to play. He fondly recalls the low-scoring thriller against England where the seamers won the battle. Hopefully he can get some seam movement and extra bounce. Tickner prefers bowling-friendly pitches.
The boundaries will be an important factor in the death overs. The short square boundaries and long straight boundaries mean New Zealand’s bowlers will be looking to bowl to where it will be easiest for the batters to hit over the ropes.
Wickets are still the key factor. Early wickets are always the aim in an ODI, but the attack will be able to adjust at the end.
Low pressure, high impact. A bowler who is playing with no pressure can be a dangerous prospect. With his batting cameo, Tickner looks like he’s feeling confident.
What’s Next
New Zealand will look to bounce back in the second ODI in Wellington after losing heavily in the first game of the series. If the pitch offers seam and bounce, Tickner could play a big role in helping the home side recover. No matter what happens, he knows who will be waiting for him.
FAQ
Who is Blair Tickner?
A New Zealand fast bowler in the ODI squad against India.
Why is he in the news?
He discusses how his wife Sarah was diagnosed with Leukaemia and how she is recovering and how it has changed his view on cricket and life.
How is Sarah Tickner?
She was discharged from hospital on Christmas Eve 2024 and has been in remission since.
How did he perform in the first ODI?
He scored 34 runs from 23 balls batting at number 11. He also formed a 41-run partnership with Jacob Duffy at the bottom of the order.
Why does he enjoy playing in Wellington?
The pitch generally favours seamers. He was Player of the Match with 4 wickets and an unbeaten 18. He took the two-wicket victory against England.
What are the differences between the grounds?
Eden Park has short straight boundaries. Whereas Wellington has a smaller square but longer straight boundaries.
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