New Zealand is set to recall wicketkeeper Tim Seifert into its line-up for Monday morning’s T20 World Cup final as a replacement for the injured Devon Conway.
After stunning pre-tournament favourites England in the semi-final, the Black Caps were dealt a massive blow when it was revealed Conway had broken his hand in the match.
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Seifert played in New Zealand’s World Cup opener against Pakistan, but has been sidelined since that match. He described his inclusion for the decider as “a dream come true”.
“When you’re not playing, when you’re one of the reserve players, you’re always ready to go and preparing like you are going to play, because unfortunately injuries do happen, that’s just sport,” he told stuff.co.nz.
“It’s very unfortunate for Devon, we’re gutted for him, but at the end of the day sometimes that’s sport and little things like that happen.”
Seifert is expected to slot into New Zealand’s lower order as everyone shuffles up in Conway’s absence, and he said his experience acquired in T20 leagues all over the world would benefit him on the big stage.
“It’s probably been the last year, two years, even beyond that, getting ready for these big events.
“I’ve had a pretty good period leading into this competition, with the experience of playing overseas and being around big environments, which has helped, especially in these conditions.
“I’ve prepared well and whatever team we put out there, I think everyone will be ready.”