Seifert’s explosive 97 powers New Zealand to series-clinching win over Pakistan

Tim Seifert produced a blistering unbeaten 97 as New Zealand cruised to an eight-wicket victory over Pakistan in the final Twenty20 international in Wellington on Wednesday, securing a 4-1 series triumph.

Chasing 129, Seifert set the tone immediately, smashing 18 runs off the first over from Jahandad Khan after being struck on the body with the opening delivery. The right-hander went on to hammer six fours and 10 sixes in his 38-ball onslaught, dismantling the Pakistan attack.

“After I nearly got hit on the head with that first ball, I thought there’s only one way to play,” Seifert said. “A few shots go your way, and you’re backing yourself and your skills. When you get a match-up, you commit 100 percent and try to take that bowler down.”

Finn Allen contributed 27 off 12 balls before falling in the seventh over with New Zealand at 93-1. Mark Chapman departed cheaply for three, but Seifert and Daryl Mitchell (two not out) completed the chase at 131-2 in just 12.1 overs.

Pakistan, batting first, struggled to 128-9 despite a 54-run sixth-wicket stand between Salman Agha (51) and Shadab Khan (28). Jimmy Neesham starred with the ball for New Zealand, claiming 5-22—his maiden T20I five-wicket haul—while Jacob Duffy took 2-18.

Pakistan captain Salman acknowledged New Zealand’s dominance but remained optimistic. “They just outplayed us in the whole series,” he said. “But we have a few positives, and we’ll move forward.”

The teams now shift focus to a three-match ODI series beginning in Napier on Saturday.

(Source: AFP)