NZ's Blair Tickner celebrates Test comeback with four-fer: Stats
What's the story
In his maiden Test appearance since March 2023, New Zealand's Blair Tickner shone brightly with a stellar bowling performance on Day 1 of the second Test against the West Indies in Wellington. The pacer claimed four wickets as the visitors were folded for just 205. However, his impressive outing was marred by an unfortunate injury as he was carried off the field on a stretcher after suffering a suspected shoulder dislocation. Here are further details.
Match dynamics
West Indies's strong start and New Zealand's comeback
Batting first, WI were off to a strong start with Brandon King (33) and John Campbell (44) putting up a solid opening stand of 66 runs. However, their innings took a turn when Tickner struck twice in quick succession, dismissing King LBW on review and pinning Kavem Hodge (0) in front without needing one. The pacer further trapped two well-set batters, Shai Hope (48) and captain Roston Chase (29), before leaving the field.
Stats
Second Test four-fer for Tickner
Tickner, who last played a Test in March 2023, claimed 4/32 from 16 overs in his latest outing. As per ESPNcricinfo, this was his second four-fer in the format, and also his Test figures. With this spell, the 32-year-old has raced to 16 wickets across four Tests at 29.18. Overall in First-Class cricket, Tickner has raced to a tally of 277 wickets from 91 matches at 33-plus (4W: 17, 5W: 6).
Debutant
Three wickets for Michael Rae on debut
Tickner's injury comes as a major blow to New Zealand's bowling attack, which was already missing the services of Matt Henry and Nathan Smith. Despite the setback, debutant pacer Michael Rae stepped up to support Tickner with an impressive performance of his own, claiming three wickets for 67 runs (18 overs). Playing his 70th FC match, Rae has raced to 211 wickets at 32-plus (4W: 8, 5W: 3).