Blackcaps wicketkeeper Tim Seifert has been ruled out of the T20 series against the West Indies getting under way tonight.
Seifert retired hurt after taking a knock to his finger while batting for Northern District’s during their Ford Trophy game on Monday and an X-ray revealed a fracture to his right index finger.
Canterbury wicketkeeper Mitch Hay has been called in as a replacement.
Blackcaps coach Rob Walter said it was disappointing to lose Seifert on the eve of another important series.
"We’re all feeling for Tim," Walter said.
"He’s a key member of this T20 unit given his power at the top of the order and his role as keeper, so he’ll be missed over the next five matches.
"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.
"We’re hoping Tim’s recovery will be quick and he’ll be back on the park as soon as possible."
Hay has played 11 T20 internationals since debuting in November last year and holds the world record for the most dismissals (six) in a T20 international cricket innings.
"Mitch has shown in his international opportunities so far that he’s a top-quality wicketkeeper batter and is more than capable of contributing at this level," Walter said.
"We’re lucky to be able call on another player of his ability which shows the level of depth we currently have in the T20 format."
The Blackcaps start a five-game series against West Indies at Eden Park in Auckland tonight. They wrap up the series in Dunedin next Thursday. — Allied Media
