NZ vs ENG | Blair Tickner replaces injured Kyle Jamieson in New Zealand squad for last two ODIs

‌Pacer Blair Tickner has been included in New Zealand’s squad for their last two ODIs against England. Tickner replaces Kyle Jamieson, who experienced side stiffness during practice ahead of the opening game in Mount Maunganui and was rested for the series as a precautionary measure.

Tickner has played 13 ODIs for the Kiwis, picking up 16 wickets at an average of 42.43 and a strike rate of 38.9. He has also played three Tests and 18 T20Is, getting 12 and 19 wickets, respectively, in the two formats. He will be in line to play his first international game in almost two and a half years after featuring in an ODI against Pakistan in Karachi in May 2023.

"Blair's an experienced campaigner and no stranger to international cricket," Rob Walter, New Zealand's head coach, said. "He bowls a heavy ball from a decent height with plenty of energy and aggression. In that respect, he can fill a similar role to what Kyle would normally perform."

The home side started the three-match ODI series with a tricky four-wicket win over England in a low-scoring game at Bay Oval. All-rounder Zakary Foulkes and Jacob Duffy shone with the ball, picking up seven wickets between them, while Daryl Mitchell and Michael Bracewell anchored the chase with clinical half-centuries.

"It was a good start to the series, and I thought the bowlers set the tone superbly," Walter said. "For Zak Foulkes to claim 4-41 in his first bowl in ODI cricket, including the big wickets of Ben Duckett, Joe Root, and Jacob Bethell, showed the level of talent and composure he possesses.

"It was encouraging to see the middle order then step up with the bat on a tricky wicket, and I thought Daryl Mitchell and Michael Bracewell showed their experience to help guide us to the target.

The second ODI will be played at Seddon Park in Hamilton on Wednesday, with the last game scheduled in Wellington on Saturday.

"Seddon Park will bring new conditions and challenges, and we know England will be highly motivated to bounce back and level the series."