In Christchurch, New Zealand Cricket confirmed that wicket‑keeper‑batter Tim Seifert is out of the upcoming West Indies T20I series because he broke his right index finger. The series will start Wednesday at Eden Park in Auckland.
Seifert was hurt during a domestic match for Northern Districts when he was struck on the finger while batting against the Wellington Firebirds. An X‑ray showed a fracture, forcing him to retire hurt. “We’re all feeling for Tim,” said Head Coach Rob Walter. “He’s a key player for the T20 unit, especially as a powerful top‑order batter and a reliable keeper. We’ll miss him over the next five games.”
Why it matters: Seifert’s performance has brightened in recent T20 matches, and his injury comes just before a major series. New Zealand will need someone to fill the gap at the top of the order and behind the stumps.
Mitch Hay has been named as Seifert’s replacement. Hay has already played 11 T20 internationals for New Zealand, debuting in November against Sri Lanka. He holds the world record for the most dismissals in a T20I innings (six). Coach Walter praised Hay, saying he shows great skill as a wicket‑keeper‑batter and is ready for the pressure of an international series.
New Zealand Cricket said Hay joined the squad on Monday night and is ready to step in. The team’s depth in T20 cricket looks solid, giving the squad confidence that they can compete without losing a star player.
With the play scheduled to begin midweek, New Zealand fans can expect a strong performance from the new back-up keeper while hoping Seifert recovers quickly and returns to the crease soon.
Source: ianslive
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