QUICK TAKE | Blair Tickner Hits Four Sixes Against India. Here Are Seven Things to Know

1. Why is he in the news?

Tickner hit 34 from 23 balls, with four sixes and one four, as New Zealand were dismissed for 185 in the first ODI at Eden Park. Only Tim Seifert, with 38, scored more. Tickner and Jacob Duffy added 39 for the last wicket.

2. Who is Blair Tickner?

He is a 33-year-old New Zealand fast bowler, born in Napier on October 13, 1993. He represents Central Districts, where he was named Central Stags Player of the Year in both 2023–24 and 2024–25.

3. Does he really make coffee?

Yes. Tickner has worked as a barista during off-seasons. He and his wife Sarah opened 13th Stag in Hastings in July 2019. The sports-park café caters to athletes, supporters and locals.

4. What happened around his Test debut?

Cyclone Gabrielle struck Hawke’s Bay shortly before his first Test against England in February 2023. His father’s home was destroyed. After the match, Tickner and teammate Will Young returned to help with the clean-up alongside other Central Stags players.

5. Why did he leave Derbyshire early?

Sarah was diagnosed with leukaemia during his 2024 county stint in England. Derbyshire confirms he returned to New Zealand early. In June 2024, Sarah publicly described further chemotherapy back in New Zealand. He rejoined the county in 2025.

6. Had he already made an international comeback?

Yes. New Zealand Cricket records his return in 2025 after last appearing in 2023. He took 4/34 and 4/64 in successive ODIs against England, winning Player of the Match in both. Auckland’s innings adds batting attention to that bowling revival.

7. Why does batting at No.11 make this unusual?

No.11 is the final batting position, usually occupied by a specialist bowler. Tickner’s four sixes equalled the rest of New Zealand’s team combined. Gurnoor Brar eventually dismissed him, caught by KL Rahul. His contribution gave India a target of 186.