New Zealand lose key batter for West Indies series
Kiwi wicket-keeper/batter Tim Seifert to miss T20 series after breaking his finger in domestic action.
New Zealand will be without Tim Seifert for the upcoming T20 series against the West Indies with confirmation that the wicket-keeper/batter broke his finger in domestic cricket on Monday.
Seifert retired hurt after being struck by a delivery while batting for Northern Districts, with an X-ray on his right index finger revealing the injury.
Mitch Hay has been named as Seifert's replacement in the squad, though Devon Conway could take the gloves beat out Hay to a spot in the starting XI.
The loss of Seifert is a blow for the Black Caps' T20 World Cup 2026 preparations, with the 30-year-old enjoying a prolific year in the shortest format, averaging over 50 with the bat at an average of 164.41.
Coach Rob Walter acknowledges the news has affected his side's build-up for the event in India and Sri Lanka early next year.
"He showed in the recent T20 series that he's building up to top form, so it's disappointing that that has been halted as we continue to prepare for a pinnacle event," Walter said.
"We're hoping Tim's recovery will be quick and he'll be back on the park as soon as possible."
Hay has featured in 11 T20Is for the Black Caps since making his debut against Sri Lanka in Dambulla in November last year, and claimed a record six dismissals in one innings in a victory over the hosts in his second appearance.
The 25-year-old Hay also made headlines with an unbeaten 99 off just 78 balls in an ODI against Pakistan earlier this year.
The T20I series begins on Wednesday in Auckland.
New Zealand v West Indies - T20I Series
1st T20I: 5 November, Auckland
2nd T20I: 6 November, Auckland
3rd T20I: 9 November, Nelson
4th T20I: 11 November, Nelson
5th T20I: 13 November, Dunedin