Former Black Caps fast bowler Bob Blair dies aged 94

Blair played 19 tests for New Zealand and is remembered for taking the field hours after his fiancée died in the 1953 Tangiwai disaster.

Former New Zealand fast bowler Bob Blair has died at the age of 94.

Blair played 19 test matches for New Zealand and is best known for one of cricket's most poignant moments. In 1953, the 21-year-old took the field in Johannesburg within hours of learning his fiancée Nerissa Love had been killed in the Tangiwai train disaster.

Blair had stayed at the team hotel to grieve before joining Bert Sutcliffe at the crease for a final-wicket partnership that added 33 runs. Sutcliffe was bloodied during the stand, and players from both sides were moved to tears.

NZ Cricket interim chief executive Graham Parks said the episode had left a lasting impression on cricket in New Zealand and South Africa. The Black Caps will wear black armbands during the third test against England starting the following day.