Photo Credit: New Zealand Cricket
Blair Tickner has been withdrawn from the BLACKCAPS T20 Squad to face the United Arab Emirates this week to allow him to be at home with his wife and new born daughter.
Tickner was due to travel today to join the squad in Dubai following his daughter’s birth late last week; however, a decision has been made for him to stay at home in Hawke’s Bay with his family.
Otago Volts bowler Jacob Duffy will replace Tickner in the squad and travel to Dubai later today.
BLACKCAPS coach Gary Stead said it was important for Tickner to have this time at home with his young family.
“We’re a family environment and after speaking with Blair we fully support him being at home with Sarah and young Florence.”
“The birth of a child is a special time and we’re glad to be able to support Blair in being at home.”
Stead said Duffy always added to any squad he was selected for.
“Jacob’s been part of many BLACKCAPS squads in the past and has always acquitted himself well at international level.
“He’s got good skills and experience and we look forward to welcoming him into our squad in Dubai.”
The first T20I against the UAE is 6pm Thursday (2am Friday NZT) at Dubai International Stadium.
Revised BLACKCAPS UAE T20 Squad
Tim Southee (c)
Adi Ashok*
Chad Bowes
Mark Chapman
Dane Cleaver
Jacob Duffy
Dean Foxcroft*
Kyle Jamieson
Ben Lister
Cole McConchie
Jimmy Neesham
Rachin Ravindra
Mitchell Santner
Tim Seifert
Will Young
*Potential debut
