Sydney: New Zealand wicketkeeper-batter Tim Seifert marked a stunning return to competitive cricket with a blistering century, powering the Melbourne Renegades to a 14-run victory over the Brisbane Heat in their opening match of the Big Bash League (BBL).
Opening the innings at Geelong, Seifert produced a sensational knock of 102 off just 56 balls, making full use of the short boundaries. His innings featured nine fours and six towering sixes, setting the tone for the Renegades in a high-scoring contest.
The century was especially significant for Seifert, who was playing his first match in six weeks after recovering from a broken finger that forced him to withdraw from New Zealand’s T20 series against the West Indies last month.
Seifert Joins Elite Renegades List
Seifert became only the second player in Melbourne Renegades history to score a Big Bash century, joining former Australia white-ball captain Aaron Finch in an exclusive club.
The 31-year-old Northern Districts representative laid the foundation for the Renegades’ imposing total of 212 for five from their 20 overs. He received strong support from Australia Under-19 captain Oliver Peake, who impressed with a rapid 57 off 29 deliveries.
Heat Fall Short Despite Munro Fifty
In response, the Brisbane Heat were never able to seriously threaten the target once opener and former Black Cap Colin Munro was dismissed after scoring 55 from 32 balls. Despite some late hitting, the Heat finished on 198 for eight, falling 14 runs short.
The victory lifts the Renegades to the top of the Big Bash points table alongside the Perth Scorchers, who also opened their campaign with a win after defeating the Sydney Sixers by five wickets. New Zealand batter Finn Allen contributed 16 runs in that match.
New Zealanders Shine Across Big Bash Leagues
New Zealand players continue to make their presence felt across Australia’s domestic competitions. In the Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL), Sophie Devine sits sixth on the overall wicket-taking list with 15 wickets for the Perth Scorchers, who are currently third on the table.
After ten rounds, Australian international Ashleigh Gardner leads the wicket charts with 19 dismissals, while the Hobart Hurricanes remain the competition leaders.
With Tim Seifert’s explosive return and strong contributions across both leagues, New Zealand cricketers are once again to the fore in the Big Bash season.
