Tim Seifert IPL 2026: Tim Seifert is officially back in the Indian Premier League, and this time he returns to Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) for IPL 2026. The explosive New Zealand wicketkeeper-batter was acquired for ₹1.50 crore at the IPL 2026 auction held in December 2025.
With his recent red-hot T20I form and familiarity with Indian conditions, Seifert could be one of KKR’s most impactful overseas additions this season.
Tim Seifert IPL 2026 – Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Player Name | Tim Seifert |
| Nationality | New Zealand |
| IPL 2026 Team | Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) |
| Auction Price | ₹1.50 Crore |
| Base Price | ₹1.50 Crore |
| Role | Wicketkeeper-Batter |
| Batting Style | Right-Handed |
| IPL Debut | 2021 (KKR) |
| T20I Runs | 2107+ Runs |
| 2026 Highlight | 99* vs UAE (T20 World Cup) |
| Key Strength | Aggressive Powerplay Hitter |
Seifert was bought at his base price, marking a return to the same franchise he previously represented in IPL 2021.
Tim Seifert’s Current Form – 2026 T20 World Cup Performance
Heading into IPL 2026, Seifert is in exceptional rhythm. His performances in the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup have turned heads globally.
Record-Breaking Partnership
On February 10, 2026, Seifert and Finn Allen registered a 175-run opening partnership vs UAE in Chennai — the highest opening stand in T20 World Cup history.
Recent Scores (2026)
- 99 (42 balls)* vs UAE
- 65 (42 balls) vs Afghanistan
- 62 (36 balls) vs India
These performances came in Indian conditions — a big advantage ahead of IPL 2026.
Read more: IPL Schedule 2026
Tim Seifert IPL Career Stats
Although his IPL opportunities have been limited, he brings significant T20 experience.
IPL Batting Record
| Year | Matches | Runs | Highest | Strike Rate | Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Career | 3 | 26 | 21 | 113.04 | 8.67 |
| 2022 | 2 | 24 | 21 | 126.32 | 12.00 |
| 2021 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 50.00 | 2.00 |
While IPL numbers are modest, his international T20 record tells a different story:
- 83 T20Is
- 2107 runs
- Strike Rate: 145.82
- 15 half-centuries
Read more: Cameron Green IPL 2026 – Auction Price, KKR Team, Stats & Latest Updates
KKR 2026 Squad Overview
Seifert joins a revamped KKR unit led by Ajinkya Rahane (Captain) and coached by Abhishek Nayar.
Overseas Core
- Cameron Green
- Matheesha Pathirana
- Mustafizur Rahman
- Finn Allen
- Tim Seifert
- Rachin Ravindra
Indian Core
- Ajinkya Rahane (C)
- Rinku Singh
- Rahul Tripathi
- Sunil Narine
- Varun Chakaravarthy
- Harshit Rana
Wicketkeeping Options
- Tim Seifert
- Finn Allen
- Tejasvi Singh
With both Allen and Seifert in top form, KKR could field one of the most aggressive opening combinations in IPL 2026.
Why Tim Seifert Is Important for KKR in 2026
Spin-Hitting Ability
Seifert plays spin aggressively — a major asset in Indian conditions.
Powerplay Specialist
He attacks from ball one, making him ideal for the first six overs.
T20 Experience
With over 80 international T20s, he brings stability and adaptability.
Familiarity with KKR Setup
Having played for the franchise earlier, the transition will be smooth.
Player Profile – Tim Seifert
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Timothy Grant Seifert |
| Date of Birth | 14 December 1994 |
| Age (2026) | 31 Years |
| Birthplace | Wanganui, New Zealand |
| Batting Style | Right-Handed |
| Role | WK-Batsman |
| T20I Ranking | Top 10 (2026) |
What to Expect from Seifert in IPL 2026
If he continues his current form, Seifert could:
- Open alongside Finn Allen
- Play as aggressive No.3
- Provide backup wicketkeeping depth
- Strengthen KKR’s overseas power-hitting options
Given his confidence after a record-breaking World Cup run, IPL 2026 could be his breakthrough season.
FAQs
1. Which team will Tim Seifert play for in IPL 2026?
Tim Seifert will represent Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the IPL 2026 season.
2. What was Tim Seifert’s auction price in IPL 2026?
He was bought for ₹1.50 crore, which was his base price at the auction.
3. What is Tim Seifert’s role in KKR?
He plays as a wicketkeeper-batter, known for his aggressive top-order batting.
4. Has Tim Seifert played in the IPL before?
Yes, he previously played for KKR in 2021 and 2022.
5. What is Tim Seifert’s recent form before IPL 2026?
He scored 99, 65, and 62* in the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup and was part of a record 175-run opening partnership.
6. Will Tim Seifert open the batting for KKR in IPL 2026?
He is a strong contender to open, especially alongside fellow New Zealander Finn Allen, depending on team strategy.
7. How many IPL matches has Tim Seifert played so far?
As of IPL 2026, he has played 3 IPL matches.
8. What is Tim Seifert’s T20 international strike rate?
He has a T20I strike rate of 145+, highlighting his aggressive batting style
