Tim Seifert starred with his second consecutive half-century, while Ish Sodhi delivered a career-best bowling performance as New Zealand cruised to a 60-run victory over Zimbabwe in their T20 tri-series match in Harare on Thursday. The win marked New Zealand’s fourth consecutive triumph in the round-robin stage, securing their place in the final against South Africa, set to take place at the same venue on Saturday.
Seifert’s explosive 75, combined with Rachin Ravindra’s 63, propelled New Zealand to a formidable total of 190 for six—the highest score of the tournament. The duo’s 108-run partnership for the second wicket laid the foundation for the dominant performance. Zimbabwe, in response, struggled against Sodhi’s spin magic, collapsing to 130 all out as the leg-spinner claimed a remarkable 4-12, his best figures in T20 internationals.
Sodhi’s brilliance began early, as he struck with his second ball and took three wickets for just five runs in his first two overs during the powerplay. Returning later, he secured his fourth wicket, becoming only the third bowler to reach 150 T20I wickets, joining an elite list led by his teammate Tim Southee (164). Reflecting on his match-winning spell, Sodhi expressed satisfaction with his new role, stating, “It was nice to contribute in a slightly new role for me. I haven’t bowled a lot in powerplays in my career.”
New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner praised his team’s adaptability after opting to bat first on a pitch that had previously favored chasing sides. “It was nice to put a score on the board batting first,” he said. With multiple players stepping up at crucial moments, Santner admitted facing a selection dilemma ahead of the final, acknowledging the depth and form within the squad. The victory reinforced New Zealand’s status as strong contenders for the tri-series title.