
In a thrilling second T20I clash between Pakistan and New Zealand at Dunedin’s University Oval, Tim Seifert delivered a stunning display of power-hitting against Pakistan’s star pacer Shaheen Afridi. The match, reduced to 15 overs per side due to rain, saw New Zealand secure a comfortable six-wicket victory, taking a 2-0 lead in the five-match series. The highlight of the game was Seifert’s explosive over against Afridi, where he smashed four consecutive sixes, leaving the cricketing world in awe.
Shaheen Afridi’s nightmare over against Tim Seifert
Afridi, known for his lethal pace and swing, endured a rare off day. In his three overs, he conceded 31 runs, with 24 of those coming in a single over against Seifert. This onslaught not only shifted the momentum in New Zealand’s favor but also showcased Seifert’s exceptional ability to dominate even the best bowlers.
Breaking down the four sixes
- The 119-meter monster
Afridi’s first delivery was a length ball outside off-stump. Seifert stepped forward, adjusted his stance, and launched it straight down the ground. The ball soared an incredible 119 meters, leaving everyone stunned by its sheer distance. - Over extra cover
Afridi tried a wider line on the second ball, but Seifert was ready. He leaned back and effortlessly lofted it over extra cover for another massive six, showcasing his impeccable timing and precision. - Deep mid-wicket blast
On the fifth ball, Afridi attempted a short-pitched delivery to cramp Seifert. However, the Kiwi batter responded with a ferocious pull shot that sailed over deep mid-wicket, sending the crowd into a frenzy. - Square-leg masterstroke
To cap off the over, Afridi bowled a short-of-length ball angling into Seifert’s body. Unfazed, Seifert adjusted his feet and hammered it over deep square leg for yet another towering six, completing a remarkable over of power-hitting.
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Seifert has 7 letters, so does Maximum
Tim Seifert took Shaheen Afridi to the cleaners in his second over, smashing four sixes in it #NZvPAK pic.twitter.com/F5nFqmo7G6
— FanCode (@FanCode) March 18, 2025
Also READ: Fans react as Tim Seifert and bowlers power New Zealand to a 2-0 lead over Pakistan in the T20I series
Seifert’s match-defining performance
Seifert’s assault on Afridi wasn’t just a personal triumph; it was a game-changing moment that tilted the match decisively in New Zealand’s favor. Chasing 136 in 15 overs, the Kiwis cruised to victory with five balls to spare, thanks to Seifert’s blistering 45 off just 22 balls. His aggressive innings set the tone for the chase and demoralized Pakistan’s bowling attack.
Pakistan’s ongoing woes against New Zealand
Pakistan’s struggles persisted in both batting and bowling. While they managed to post a competitive total of 135/9, their bowlers failed to contain New Zealand’s aggressive approach. Even Afridi, their go-to bowler in crunch situations, was rendered ineffective by Seifert’s onslaught.
Captain Salman Ali Agha acknowledged these shortcomings in the post-match presentation, emphasizing the need for improved performances in the powerplay overs—both with bat and ball—if Pakistan hopes to stage a comeback in the series.
Trailing 0-2, Pakistan face a daunting task to keep the series alive. Meanwhile, New Zealand continue to dominate, with players like Seifert rising to the occasion when it matters most. For Afridi and Pakistan, this match serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of T20 cricket and the importance of adapting swiftly to challenging conditions.