Eden Park’s reputation draws a blunt review from Seifert.
As the Black Caps prepared to salvage a drawn T20I series against England at Auckland’s Eden Park, the spotlight briefly shifted away from team tactics and toward the venue itself. Eden Park, a ground known for its idiosyncrasies and unusually short straight boundaries, often invites polarising opinions — and ahead of the third T20 International, Tim Seifert didn’t hold back.

While addressing reporters during the pre-match press conference, Seifert gave a blunt appraisal of the ground’s high-scoring nature: “It can sometimes be a bit Mickey Mouse at Eden Park. 250 could be a par score, so it will be interesting to see what the wicket plays like, and we’ve just got to adapt to whatever we play on.”

Though anticipation was high for a possible run-fest, persistent rain allowed only 3.4 overs of play before the match was ultimately called off with England at 38 for 1 in what had been reduced to an eight-overs-a-side contest.

Reflecting Christchurch's loss and his own performance
Despite the rain spoiling any chance of redemption in Auckland, Seifert remained focused on the positives from the previous match in Christchurch — a 65-run defeat that saw England post a mammoth total. Reflecting on the team’s response, he pointed out that even in a below-par outing, there were signs of resilience.

“They potentially got 20 above par score, if they got a par score, I think we were in a great way to chase that score. We ended up getting 17,0 and to be honest with ourselves, as we didn’t bat that well. To get 170 and not have a par performance is also a good sell.”

Seifert was New Zealand’s top scorer in the chase with 39 off 29 deliveries, but he was disappointed not to push further.

“I’ve been pleased with how I’ve been going about it, (but) disappointed that I didn’t kick on and get a big score, because that’s what we needed to win that game.”

“I’m in a good mindset and have had a good past year, and hopefully a big one is just around the corner.”

The modern T20 opener: aggression across formats
Speaking about the evolving role of openers in modern T20 cricket, Seifert noted the aggressive approach has become the global norm.

“If you look around the whole world, all openers are kinda going hard. Look at Mitch Marsh (for Australia against New Zealand) a few weeks ago.”

He added that high strike rates don’t always come from just six-hitting power.

“Sometimes it looks like they are smacking sixes, and some guys will be hitting fours, but their strike rates are still high.”

Referencing England’s domination in Christchurch, Seifert stressed that a single impactful innings can often decide a T20 game.

And that is all we need to win those games.”

Looking ahead despite the weather and contract flexibility
Persistent spring weather has affected the series, but Seifert emphasised the value of playing against high-calibre opposition regardless of timing.

“I think when you play Australia and England, you are going to take every chance to play them. You’d rather potentially play this time of year rather than not.”

Currently on a casual New Zealand Cricket contract, Seifert’s focus remains on T20S, including the upcoming World Cup if selected. His flexibility also allows him to play in overseas leagues like the Big Bash and IPL.

“Next year is a keen slate and we will just see what that looks like and go from there.”

While Seifert remains flexible about his future beyond this season, for now, his focus is firmly on contributing to New Zealand’s T20 plans — even as unpredictable weather and unconventional venues continue to test the team’s adaptability.