In a commanding display at Seddon Park, Hamilton, Blair Tickner announced his return to international cricket in style, helping New Zealand national cricket team overcome England national cricket team by five wickets in the second ODI of the series on 29 October 2025. The hosts dismissed England for just 175, thanks largely to Tickner’s best‑ever figures of 4 for 34, and chased the target with ease—finishing on 177/5 inside 33.1 overs to seal the series with one game to spare.
England’s batting again lacked cohesion as none of their top seven managed a meaningful innings. Captain Harry Brook top‑scored with 34, while lower‑order cameo by Jamie Overton (42 off 28) offered little relief. Tickner’s opening burst undermined England’s hopes early, reducing the visitors to 51 for 3.
In reply, New Zealand got off to a shaky start, losing early wickets, but a composed knock of 56 * by Daryl Mitchell and a brisk 34 * off 17 by Mitchell Santner anchored the chase. They put on an unbroken 59‑run partnership to seal victory with 101 balls to spare. England’s new ball attack—led by Jofra Archer (3 for 23)—glimmed hope, but the hosts were never seriously threatened.
Tickner’s selection itself was a talking point: recalled after two years out of the ODI side, he stepped into the XI following Matt Henry’s calf injury. His performance underlined not just a return to form but cemented his place in the squad for the rest of the series.
With this win, New Zealand clinch the three‑match series 2‑0 and reinforce their dominance in the 50‑over format at home. England, on the other hand, will head into the final match searching for answers — their fragile top‑order yet again failing to deliver.
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