New Zealand Fast Bowler Blair Tickner Celebrates Wicket with Pokémon Card

New Zealand fast bowler Blair Tickner surprised fans and television viewers during the fifth and final T20 International match against India at Seddon Park in Hamilton by pulling an official Pokémon trading card from his pocket to celebrate a wicket.

The unusual moment occurred in the 19th over of the match after Tickner removed Indian batter Naman Dhir, who had been scoring heavily and looked positioned to drive India's total past the 200-run mark. Dhir attempted a big shot off a knuckle ball outside the off stump, resulting in a high top edge that Michael Bracewell caught after a back-pedaling dive at extra cover. Dhir departed for 33 runs off 23 balls.

Once the traditional team huddle concluded, Tickner reached into his pocket and retrieved an official Pokémon trading card featuring a red fire energy symbol. He held the card up proudly toward the broadcast cameras, kissed it, and then returned it to his pocket.

The celebration quickly captured the attention of social media users, drawing varied and amused reactions from fans online. Some questioned whether the fast bowler was an avid collector, while others expressed surprise and shared lighthearted commentary about the unexpected pitch-side moment.

Cricket observers noted that the celebration stood out for its lack of malice or aggression toward the opposing batter, offering a lighthearted display of personality that resonated widely across digital platforms. Tickner finished his spell with figures of two wickets for 38 runs, including the dismissal of Ishan Kishan, contributing to New Zealand's efforts in the series finale.

The match itself formed part of the concluding fixture of the T20 series, where New Zealand won the toss and opted to bowl first. India ultimately posted a total of 191/8 in their allotted 20 overs, supported by a strong half-century from Ishan Kishan and quick contributions from Shreyas Iyer, before the unconventional celebration became the most widely discussed aspect of the contest.