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Seifert’s Blazing 97* Powers New Zealand to Series Win Over Pakistan
Tim Seifert’s explosive 97* off 38 balls led New Zealand to an 8-wicket win over Pakistan, sealing the T20I series 4-1. Neesham starred with a 5-wicket haul as NZ chased 129 in just 10 overs!
ND
by News Desk
2025-03-26
Seifert’s Blazing 97* Powers New Zealand to Series Win Over Pakistan

Tim Seifert delivered a masterclass in power-hitting as New Zealand demolished Pakistan by eight wickets in the final T20I, securing a dominant 4-1 series win on Wednesday.

Seifert’s blistering unbeaten knock of 97 off just 38 balls ensured the Kiwis made light work of Pakistan’s 129-run target, chasing it down in just 10 overs. The aggressive opener set the tone early, smashing 18 runs off the first over bowled by debutant Jahandad Khan, despite taking a blow to the body on the very first delivery.

“After I nearly got hit on the head with that first ball, I thought there’s only one way to play,” Seifert said after the match. “A few shots go your way, you back yourself, and when you get a matchup, you commit 100% to taking the bowler down.”

Relentless Seifert, Quick Chase

Seifert’s assault continued as he hammered three sixes in a 25-run over off Jahandad, making his intentions clear. His innings featured 10 sixes, and he fittingly finished the game in style with three consecutive maximums off Shadab Khan.

Fellow opener Finn Allen (27 off 12) also contributed, blasting five fours and a six before falling to Sufiyan Muqeem in the seventh over. Mark Chapman (3) had a brief stay, but Seifert and Daryl Mitchell (2*) ensured the hosts cruised to 131-2.

Pakistan’s only bright spot in the bowling department was Muqeem, who finished with impressive figures of 2-6 in his two overs.

Pakistan’s Struggles Continue

Earlier, Pakistan struggled to build momentum and managed only 128-9. Their innings was derailed early as Jacob Duffy (2-18) and Will O’Rourke rattled the top order. Duffy removed Hasan Nawaz for his third duck of the series and followed up with Omair Yousuf’s wicket, while Jimmy Neesham (5-22) ripped through the middle order with a career-best five-wicket haul.

Pakistan were in dire straits at 52-5 before captain Salman Agha (51 off 39) and Shadab Khan (28 off 20) provided some resistance with a 54-run partnership. Their efforts, however, were in vain as Neesham’s deadly spell ensured they fell short of a competitive total.

Pakistan Looks Ahead to ODI Series

Pakistan’s captain Salman Agha acknowledged New Zealand’s dominance but remained hopeful for the future.

“They were outstanding and completely outplayed us in the series,” Salman admitted. “But there are positives for us. The younger players gained experience, and we’ll back them to improve.”

With the T20I series concluded, both teams now shift focus to the upcoming ODI series, which begins in Napier on Saturday.
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