Helmet Blow Rules Tickner Out of Series-Deciding Test

New Zealand have suffered a major setback in the series-deciding third Test against England, with fast bowler Blair Tickner ruled out of the remainder of the match after being struck on the helmet by a Jofra Archer bouncer while batting.

Tickner, batting at No. 10 in New Zealand’s first innings, was hit on the helmet by the third ball he faced. Play was briefly halted as the team’s physiotherapist assessed him for concussion symptoms. Although he later bowled three overs, conceding 21 runs without taking a wicket, he did not return to the field after tea after experiencing nausea.

Midway through the evening session, New Zealand confirmed that Tickner had been withdrawn from the match due to concussion and replaced by Zak Foulkes. As a concussion substitute, Foulkes will be eligible to play a full role for the remainder of the Test.

Foulkes made his Test debut against Zimbabwe last year and claimed two wickets in New Zealand’s victory over Ireland before the England tour. He is also regarded as a stronger batter than Tickner, with three first-class half-centuries to his name. Nevertheless, match referee Andy Pycroft approved him as a like-for-like concussion replacement.

In a statement, New Zealand Cricket said Tickner had been ruled out of the remainder of the third Test after suffering a concussion from the blow to his helmet while batting in the first innings. Zak Foulkes has been named as his replacement.

Tickner’s withdrawal is the latest setback for New Zealand. The visitors were already without Matt Henry, Glenn Phillips and Kyle Jamieson for the series decider due to injury and workload management. Despite a 317-run opening partnership between Tom Latham and Devon Conway on the opening day, New Zealand lost their remaining 10 wickets for just 121 runs.