New Zealand continued their supremacy over Pakistan with a five-wicket win in a rain-hit second T20I, securing a commanding 2-0 lead in the five-match series. The match, which had already been reduced to 15 overs per side, witnessed a series of thrilling moments, but none more electrifying than Tim Seifert’s incredible power-hitting display against Shaheen Afridi.
The explosive New Zealand wicketkeeper-batter single-handedly turned the game in his team’s favor with an astonishing counterattack, leaving Pakistan’s premier fast bowler shell-shocked. In an over that will be remembered for ages, Seifert smashed four massive sixes off Shaheen, including an unbelievable 119-meter monster hit that sent the crowd into raptures.
This innings wasn’t just about power—it was a masterclass in fearless T20 batting, proving once again why New Zealand remains one of the most dangerous teams in the format.
Seifert’s Towering 119-Meter Six Stuns Shaheen Afridi
The defining moment of the match arrived in the third over of New Zealand’s chase when Tim Seifert unleashed an outrageous six, sending the ball soaring into the night sky.
First ball of the third over:
- Shaheen Afridi, bowling from over the wicket, delivered a length ball outside off-stump, angling in towards the batter.
- Seifert cleared his front foot, judged the length perfectly, and swung his bat with brutal force.
- The connection was pure perfection, and the ball rocketed off his bat, disappearing into the sky before crashing well beyond the boundary ropes.
Distance covered: 119 meters
Reaction: The crowd erupted in disbelief, and Shaheen stood stunned as the ball sailed over his head.
Commentators’ reaction: Even the commentators were left gasping, acknowledging the sheer brutality of the strike.
This was not just a six; it was a statement. Seifert had announced his intentions, and Pakistan’s lead pacer was in for a nightmarish over.
Seifert Dismantles Shaheen Afridi with Three More Sixes in the Same Over
For most batters, hitting a 119-meter six off one of the world’s best fast bowlers would be the highlight of their innings. But Tim Seifert wasn’t done yet. He took Shaheen Afridi to the cleaners, smashing three more sixes in the same over, completely dismantling Pakistan’s bowling plans.
Seifert’s Destruction of Shaheen – Ball by Ball Breakdown
2nd Ball:
- Shaheen adjusted his line, bowling wider outside off, hoping to escape Seifert’s hitting arc.
- However, Seifert’s exceptional hand-eye coordination allowed him to reach for the ball and launch it over covers for yet another towering six.
- The ball landed deep in the stands, further demoralizing Pakistan’s fielders.
5th Ball:
- A well-directed short-pitched ball, intended to surprise Seifert.
- But the New Zealand batter was one step ahead, rocking back and pulling the ball over deep mid-wicket with a dismissive flick of his wrists.
- The crowd was in absolute awe as another ball disappeared into the stands.
6th Ball:
- Now completely rattled, Shaheen tried a short-of-length delivery, hoping for a mistimed shot.
- Seifert effortlessly punched it over deep square leg, sealing a brutal 26-run over and putting New Zealand in complete control.
By the end of the over, Shaheen Afridi—one of the most feared bowlers in world cricket—looked helpless, unable to find a way to stop the carnage.
Shaheen Afridi’s 3rd Over Figures: 6 – 6 – 0 – 0 – 6 – 6 (26 runs)
The momentum had decisively shifted in New Zealand’s favor, and Pakistan never truly recovered.
New Zealand’s Chase: A Ruthless Display of Power-Hitting
With Pakistan posting 135/9 in their 15 overs, New Zealand needed a strong start, and they got exactly that—thanks to Seifert and Finn Allen.
Powerplay Carnage:
- New Zealand’s openers raced to 66 runs inside the first five overs, making Pakistan’s bowling attack look ineffective.
- Seifert’s explosive 45 off 22 balls gave New Zealand an unshakable grip on the match.
Even after Seifert’s dismissal, New Zealand never lost control of the chase. Despite a minor middle-order stutter, the likes of Daryl Mitchell (14), Jimmy Neesham (5), and Mitchell Hay (21 off 16) ensured the job was done.
Final Winning Shot: Michael Bracewell (5* off 2 balls) finished the match in style, guiding New Zealand to 137/5 in just 13.1 overs.
Winning Margin: Five wickets with 11 balls to spare
Player of the Match: Tim Seifert – 45 runs off 22 balls, including 5 sixes.
Pakistan’s Struggles and Shaheen Afridi’s Nightmare Over
Pakistan’s innings had flashes of brilliance but was largely inconsistent.
Key Performers for Pakistan:
✔ Salman Ali Agha (46 off 28 balls) – Played a captain’s knock but lacked support.
✔ Shaheen Afridi (22 off 14 balls)* – Showed his batting skills, providing late resistance.
✔ Shadab Khan (26 off 14 balls) – A quick-fire cameo to push Pakistan past 130.
However, the failure of key batters like Mohammad Haris (11), Khushdil Shah (2), and Irfan Khan (11) meant Pakistan never built solid momentum.
Shaheen’s Forgettable Night with the Ball
- 3 overs, 41 runs, 1 wicket – One of the most expensive spells of his career.
- The 26-run over to Seifert proved decisive in shifting the match.
- Struggled with execution, failing to counter Seifert’s aggressive approach.
Looking Ahead: Pakistan Under Pressure, New Zealand Eye Series Win
With New Zealand now leading the five-match series 2-0, Pakistan finds itself in a must-win situation heading into the third T20I.
📌 Key Questions for Pakistan:
- Can Shaheen Afridi bounce back after his nightmare over against Seifert?
- Will the batting unit step up, or will the middle-order woes continue?
- Can Pakistan’s bowlers regain control, especially in the powerplay?
📌 New Zealand’s Focus:
- Maintain their aggressive, fearless brand of cricket.
- Continue their dominance in powerplays, neutralizing Pakistan’s attack early.
- Wrap up the series with a 3-0 lead, putting the visitors under further pressure.
Final Thoughts: Seifert’s Masterclass Defines New Zealand’s Ruthless Approach
Tim Seifert’s breathtaking power-hitting display—especially the 119-meter six and the ruthless attack on Shaheen Afridi—was the highlight of the match.
In a rain-hit contest that could have gone either way, New Zealand’s fearless mindset and Seifert’s counterattack turned the tide completely.
With two wins in two games, the Black Caps are now favorites to clinch the series, while Pakistan must regroup quickly to avoid a series defeat.
As the teams prepare for the third T20I, one thing is certain: Pakistan must find answers, or New Zealand will continue to dominate.
Please check for information on the best betting sites in India – https://selectory.org/best-betting-sites/