EPISODE · Jun 24, 2026 · 4 MIN
Cricketer Bob Blair's extraordinary legacy remembered
from RNZ - All Programmes
One of New Zealand's cricketing heroes, Bob Blair, has passed away aged 94. Petone-born fast bowler is remembered for his extraordinary courage during New Zealand's 1953 tour of South Africa, after learning his fiancée Nerissa Love was among the 151 people killed in the Tangiwai rail disaster. After initially staying away to grieve, he famously emerged from the players' tunnel at Ellis Park to bat with New Zealand's last wicket, prompting silence from the crowd and tears from players on both teams. Sports writer Lynn McConnell spoke to Ingrid Hipkiss.
What this episode covers
One of New Zealand's cricketing heroes, Bob Blair, has passed away aged 94. Petone-born fast bowler is remembered for his extraordinary courage during New Zealand's 1953 tour of South Africa, after learning his fiancée Nerissa Love was among the 151 people killed in the Tangiwai rail disaster. After initially staying away to grieve, he famously emerged from the players' tunnel at Ellis Park to bat with New Zealand's last wicket, prompting silence from the crowd and tears from players on both teams. Sports writer Lynn McConnell spoke to Ingrid Hipkiss.
NOW PLAYING
Cricketer Bob Blair's extraordinary legacy remembered
No transcript for this episode yet
Similar Episodes
No similar episodes found.
Similar Podcasts
No similar podcasts found.