New Zealand cricket team has confirmed that wicketkeeper batsman Tim Seifert has been excluded from the upcoming Five-match T20 series against West Indies After finger fracture.
Seifert suffered an injury during a home match, prompting him to retire hurt and undergo a scan, which revealed an injury to his right index finger.
Head coach Rob Walter expressed his disappointment, emphasizing how important Seifert is to the T20 setup as both a top-order batsman and keeper.
“We’re all feeling for Tim,” Walter said in his official statement. “Given his strength at the top of the order and his role as a keeper, he is a key member of this T20 unit, so he will be sorely missed over the next five matches.” The coach added.
Who replaced Tim Seifert in New Zealand’s T20I squad?
In the wake of Seifert’s injury, New Zealand have brought in Mitch Hay to fill the void. Hay, who already has experience in the T20 International arena, was selected for the series and joined the squad ahead of their first match at Eden Park in Auckland on 5 November.
Coach Walter praised Hay’s ability, noting that the team’s depth enabled him to be a ready replacement for Seifert’s absence. “We are fortunate to be able to call in another player of his caliber who reflects the level of depth we currently have in the T20 format.” Walter said.
Seifert’s absence: Impact on West Indies T20I and New Zealand’s plans
Losing Seifert at this level is a big blow for New Zealand. With the T20 series against the West Indies being seen as a crucial preparation task ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, the lack of an experienced keeper-batsman hampers both the playing XI and tactics.
Meanwhile, other changes in the team include the return of fast bowler Kyle Jamieson and spinner Ish Sodhi, while experienced fast bowler matt henry Relaxation has been given.
For Mitch Hay, this series presents an important opportunity to cement his place in the team and make an impact in the build-up to the World Cup.
This injury and replacement development underlines how fluid international T20 preparation can be – one injury and plans change rapidly.
New Zealand’s updated squad for West Indies T20I
Mitchell Santner (captain), Michael Bracewell, Rachin Ravindra, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Mitch Hay (wicketkeeper), Jacob Duffy, Jack Foulkes, Kyle Jamieson, Daryl Mitchell, Jimmy Neesham, Tim Robinson, Nathan Smith, Ish Sodhi.
Also read: West Indies T20 team announced for New Zealand tour; Gudakesh Moti is out
