MOUNT MAUNGANUI (Reuters) – Tim Southee, captain of New Zealand, has announced that Blair Tickner will make his test debut against England on Thursday at Mount Maunganui.
As a result of Kyle Jamieson’s injury and Matt Henry’s paternity leave, the 29-year-old bowler for the Central Districts is given the opportunity to play. Read entire account
Tickner has appeared in 17 T20Is and nine ODIs for the Black Caps, although his first class batting average in 61 matches is just 35.17.
Southee said at a pre-match press conference on Wednesday that the final XI had not yet been announced. He is anticipated to play into a fast attack comprising experienced quick Southee and Neil Wagner.
New Zealand might field two uncapped quicks if one of Jacob Duffy or Scott Kuggeleijn is included in its four-pronged speed assault.