NZ Faces Setback as Tickner Exits; WI Dismissed for 205 in 2nd Test Clash

New Zealand made a strong comeback to seize control on the first day of the second Test against the West Indies in Wellington. However, their success was overshadowed by a severe injury to seam bowler Blair Tickner, who was taken to the hospital.

At the end of the day’s play, New Zealand stood at 24-0, having bowled out the West Indies for 205 in 75 overs. Tickner, who was the standout among the New Zealand bowlers with figures of 4-32 from 16 overs, had to leave the field prematurely due to an injury sustained while fielding. Attempting a dive at the boundary, Tickner landed awkwardly, resulting in a left shoulder injury. Medical personnel quickly attended to him, and after initially concerning scenes, he managed to sit up before being transported by ambulance.

Captain Tom Latham (7 not out) and Devon Conway (16 not out) safely navigated the New Zealand innings to stumps, facing nine overs from the new ball. Earlier, Latham won the toss and opted to bowl first, and the West Indies got off to a solid start, reaching 66-0. The breakthrough for New Zealand came through Tickner, who picked up two wickets in two overs with his precise bowling.

West Indies’ opener John Campbell was dismissed for 44, soon after lunch, including six fours. They managed to reach 175-4 by tea but crumbled in the final session, losing six wickets for just 30 runs. Tickner was supported by debutant Michael Rae, who claimed 3-67 in his first Test outing.

West Indies’ Shai Hope was their top scorer, making 48 from 80 balls, aided by Campbell and Brandon King, who contributed 33.

In an injury-hit lineup, New Zealand introduced two debutants: wicketkeeper Mitchell Hay and seamer Rae, replacing regulars Tom Blundell and Matt Henry. The West Indies also had to reshuffle following an injury to Tagenarine Chanderpaul, with King filling the opening role. Kavem Hodge took Alick Athanaze’s place, and fast-bowler Anderson Phillip came in for Johann Layne.

The first Test in Christchurch ended in a draw, and the third and final Test is scheduled to begin on December 18 in Mount Maunganui.

Published on Dec 10, 2025.