Cricketer's Inspiring Comeback After Wife's Cancer Battle

In October 2025, New Zealand cricketer Blair Tickner has made a remarkable comeback to the national team, over two years after his life was thrown into turmoil by his wife Sarah's leukaemia diagnosis.

In May 2024, while Tickner was playing county cricket in England, he received the devastating news that Sarah had been diagnosed with leukaemia. Tickner was forced to continue playing a match for his county team, Derbyshire, even as he rushed back and forth to the hospital. Over the next two years, Tickner prioritized supporting his wife and their young daughter Flo, unsure if he would ever play cricket again.

Now, with Sarah in remission and the family on the road to recovery, the 32-year-old Tickner has earned a recall to the New Zealand squad. He is determined to make the most of this opportunity, vowing to play with a smile and enjoy every moment on the field. Tickner acknowledges that his priorities have shifted, saying "things are bigger than cricket, really." He hopes to bring a fresh perspective to the team, having learned not to take anything for granted after his family's ordeal.

Tickner's teammates have welcomed his return, with all-rounder Daryl Mitchell praising his high energy, pace, and commitment to the team. The cricketer himself is grateful for the chance to represent his country again, especially in front of his young daughter who has never seen him play for New Zealand before.