Is Blair Tickner Ruled Out of NZ vs WI 2nd Test in Wellington?

The bilateral tour between the West Indies and New Zealand appears to be in major trouble for the hosts. The NZ vs WI 2nd Test match has entered a decisive phase, following the first match's draw. For the second match, the hosts hoped to take early control, but it seems destiny has different plans. However, injury concerns have affected their preparations, pushing the Black Caps under another setback.

On the opening day of the Test match, NZ's another key fast bowler has suffered a suspected shoulder dislocation, raising fresh questions about the team’s stability. The setback came while he attempted to stop a boundary, and he had been taken off the field after medical assistance.

This development has intensified concerns around the Blair Tickner injury and raises questions about the ongoing NZ vs WI 2nd Test. It seems that the problems for hosts are growing despite quick adjustments to the squad.

Blair Tickner Injury Update: Is He Ruled Out of NZ vs WI 2nd Test?

Blair Tickner's injury became the biggest turning point of the WI vs NZ 2nd Test match. Tickner, who has made his comeback to Test cricket after almost two years, has delivered one of the sharpest spells of his career and was looking in good form before the incident unfolded.

His figures of 4 for 32 had placed New Zealand in a strong position despite the key bowlers and players missing from the squad. He dismissed Brandon King, Kavem Hodge, Shai Hope, and Roston Chase with his disciplined bowling and sharp bounce. However, when the team seemed settled, the match changed completely in the 63rd over of the West Indies innings when he attempted a diving stop near the boundary to chase a shot from Tevin Imlach.

Tickner landed awkwardly on his left shoulder and immediately signaled for help, which was quickly provided by the medical staff. He was stretchered off the field and later was taken to the hospital for scans. Multiple reports now suggest a suspected shoulder dislocation, and as per early assessments, the chances of Blair Tickner ruled out of the remainder of the Test are high.

Will New Zealand Make More Changes to Squad?

The match began with Tom Latham winning the toss and choosing to bowl first at one of the most beautiful cricket stadiums in the world. The decision initially paid off, as Tickner and Rae brought New Zealand back after the West Indies reached 66 without loss. Everything was going fine until Blair Tickner injury unfolded.

The suspected shoulder dislocation could require rest and suggest that Blair Tickner ruled out of not only the second Test but possibly the remainder of the series as well. The New Zealand cricket team is already dealing with a long list of injuries, and Blair Tickner shoulder injury adds another major setback. If the scans do not show positive changes, the hosts may have to make more squad changes, leading to more instability.