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Blair Marshall Tickner is a right-arm medium-pace bowler from New Zealand. Born on 13th October 1993, he hails from a small town in New Zealand's North Island. He has become one of the most promising talents in New Zealand cricket since his international debut for the Black Caps in February 2019. Young and full of potential, Tickner has quickly made a name for himself as a reliable wicket-taker and is known for his speed, accuracy and ability to swing the ball.
Growing up in Feilding, a small town in New Zealand's Manawatu region, Blair was introduced to cricket at an early age by his father who played club cricket. He started playing cricket with his brothers when he was just six years old and soon became passionate about the sport. Despite his love for the game, it wasn't until he was sixteen that he began to take it more seriously.
Despite facing initial struggles during his early years, Blair's determination paid off when he was selected to represent Central Districts in 2017–18 Plunket Shield season. His hat-trick performance against Wellington brought him into the spotlight of national selectors.
Tickner's rise to prominence began with his domestic performances for Central Districts where he impressed with consistent and economical bowling spells. After being awarded a contract with Central Districts for the 2018–19 season, he continued to impress with match-winning performances.
In February 2019, Tickner made his international debut for the New Zealand cricket team in T20Is against India where he dismissed Rishabh Pant on debut in Hamilton. Since then, he has been named in New Zealand squads across all formats of international cricket.
Tickner has established himself as a reliable wicket-taker for New Zealand in limited overs cricket. His unorthodox bowling action sets him apart from other bowlers, making it difficult for batsmen to read him. In T20Is and ODIs, he has taken 19 and 16 wickets respectively.
In his test career, Tickner has played in three innings and taken 12 wickets with an average of 36.25. He made his debut in February 2023 against England at Bay Oval but is yet to make an impact in the longest format of the game.
Blair Tickner's rise in international cricket has been steady, first getting his chance in the Indian subcontinent against India in 2019. Since then, he has represented New Zealand in three formats and made a name for himself as a potent pace bowler.
In terms of major tournaments, Tickner was part of New Zealand's squad for the 2019 ICC Cricket World Cup but did not feature in any game. However, he was selected for the 2021 ICC World Twenty20 and played four matches where he took three wickets at an economy rate of 7.75. Though his performance was decent during the tournament, his standout moment came when he claimed the prized scalp of Virat Kohli during New Zealand's group stage win against India.
Tickner has also had success playing franchise cricket around the world. He made his debut in the Indian Premier League (IPL) with Kolkata Knight Riders during IPL 2022 and impressed with his ability to bowl at different stages of an innings. He finished with six wickets from seven matches at an average of 32.5.
Furthermore, Tickner played two seasons of England's Vitality Blast T20 competition for Birmingham Bears as well as stints in Canada's Global T20 League and Australia's Big Bash League for Melbourne Stars.
Blair Tickner is a right-arm medium-fast bowler who generates good pace while being able to move the ball both ways off the pitch. His natural length is that which forces batsmen onto their back foot while also being able to surprise them with short-pitched deliveries.
Despite being primarily known as a bowling specialist, Tickner is no mug with bat in hand either. While batting down the order, he has displayed some grittiness on occasions when called upon to take guard at crucial moments.
Blair Tickner comes across as a humble and unassuming cricketer who prefers to let his performances on the field do the talking. He is not one who seeks media attention but rather focuses on honing his skills day in and day out.
Blair Tickner's impact on cricket in New Zealand cannot be overlooked. He has been an incredible bowler for Central Districts, especially in the T20 format, where he was the leading wicket-taker in the 2017/18 Super Smash T20 league with 21 dismissals. His consistency, accuracy, and variations have made him a challenging bowler to face.
Overall, Blair Tickner has had a positive impact on New Zealand’s Cricketing culture by setting new records and inspiring young cricketers with his incredible skill set.
He was named in New Zealand's Test squad for their series against South Africa in February 2022 and finally got his debut call-up later that same month. This is an achievement he will cherish for a long time and it is expected that he will add more accolades to his name in the future!
Blair Tickner's journey of becoming one of New Zealand's top bowlers has been nothing short of impressive. From his early days at Central Districts to establishing himself as a regular in the national team, Tickner has shown great character and resilience throughout his career.
FAQs
When did Blair Tickner debut in IPL?
Blair Tickner has not made his IPL debut yet.
What are some of Blair Tickner's stats?
In T20I matches, Blair Tickner has taken 19 wickets till date with best bowling figures of 4/27; In ODI matches, he has taken 16 wickets with best bowling figures of 4/50; And in Test Matches so far he took 12 wickets with best bowling figures of 4/100.
Has Blair Tickner scored any century yet?
No, Blair Tickner is primarily a fast-bowler who focuses on taking wickets rather than scoring runs - this being said - he can bat decently however hasn't scored any centuries so far in his career.
What is Blair Tickner's bowling style?
Blair Tickner is right arm medium fast bowler.
How many wickets has Blair Tickner taken in ODIs?
Blair Tickner has taken 16 wickets in his ODI career.
