Ellis park

Former New Zealand: Former New Zealand fast bowler Bob Blair, whose courage in the aftermath of the Tangiwai rail disaster became one of cricket’s most enduring stories, has passed away in England on his 94th birthday.

Blair represented New Zealand in 19 Tests between 1952 and 1964, claiming 43 wickets at an average of 35. In first-class cricket, he enjoyed an outstanding career, taking 330 wickets at an average of 15 in 59 matches, largely for Wellington and during one season for Central Districts.

His finest domestic season came in 1956-57 when he captured 46 wickets at an average of just nine, including two nine-wicket hauls in an innings.