New Zealand fast bowler Blair Tickner is understood to be out of the upcoming white-ball tour of India after sustaining a shoulder dislocation during the ongoing Test series against West Indies. The timeline for Tickner to completely recover is understood to be between six and 12 weeks.
Tickner provided a key update on his rehabilitation process and was keen on returning to the cricket arena at the earliest.
"I'm already back in the gym, doing my rehab. I feel like I'm playing good cricket, so I want
to get back out there, but I obviously have to be safe. A lot of cricket to come," stated Tickner, as quoted by India Today.
The pacer reflected on how quickly the events unfolded while diving for a catch in the outfield in Wellington. He noted that the impact of his body landing awkwardly on the ground caused his shoulder to pop out. However, the 32-year-old seemed optimistic by discussing the conditioning sessions which have already begun.
"I had four out of six [wickets] and I was looking for more, but it sort of happened in a split second. I just dived normally, like I've dived my whole life, and just hit the ground a little bit differently. It popped out and wasn't a great experience, but luckily, there's not too much damage on the way out. So, [the shoulder is] back in place and back doing rehab and back doing some conditioning sessions. So, no, life could've been worse," he added.
The 32-year-old did not play a role in the remainder of the Test at the Basin Reserve after the unfortunate episode. He was immediately taken off the field for further medical attention in a clash which New Zealand ultimately clinched by nine wickets.
The Napier-born had been the pick of the Kiwi bowlers up until his injury. He had secured four wickets while conceding only 32 runs in 16 overs. Jacob Duffy ended up securing the Player of the Match award for his six-wicket match haul.
Ahead of the T20 World Cup 2026, New Zealand will be facing India in a series which will comprise eight white-ball clashes. The three ODIs will be followed by a five-match 20-over leg. The tour is scheduled to commence on January 11.
