Blair Tickner Leads New Zealand to ODI Series Win Over England After Two-Year Absence

New Zealand secured a 2-0 lead in their ODI series against England with a dominant five-wicket win in the second match at Seddon Park, largely thanks to Blair Tickner's impressive bowling performance of 4 for 34 in his first international start since May 2023. Tickner, a late replacement for the injured Kyle Jamieson, played a crucial role in dismissing England for 175, while Daryl Mitchell's unbeaten 56 and captain Mitchell Santner's 34 not out guided New Zealand to victory. England struggled again, being bowled out cheaply and unable to build on their limited contributions from Harry Brook and Jamie Overton. Tickner's return is marked by a remarkable personal journey involving his father's home being destroyed by Cyclone Gabrielle and his wife's battle with leukemia, now in remission, which has given him a renewed perspective on life and cricket. Despite these challenges, Tickner remains positive and grateful for the opportunity to play, highlighting that "things are bigger than cricket." New Zealand now heads into the final match with a commanding lead in the series.