Melbourne Renegades have secured New Zealand wicketkeeper-batter Tim Seifert on a two-year pre-draft BBL contract.
The 29-year-old Seifert will be available for the entire duration of both seasons, as the Renegades aim to improve from their seventh-place finish last season. This commitment to the BBL means Seifert will miss part of New Zealand's domestic T20 competition, the Super Smash, and will not participate in the white-ball series against Pakistan over the Christmas and New Year period. Last month, he declined a domestic contract with Northern Districts to explore freelance T20 opportunities. Seifert has represented New Zealand in three ODIs and 61 T20Is and has played in various T20 leagues worldwide. His overall T20 record includes an average of 27.43, a strike rate of 130.12, and three centuries. Recently, he was the leading run-scorer in the Lanka Premier League, amassing 400 runs at an average of 57.14 and a strike rate of 135.13.
Seifert is expected to be a key player in the Renegades' top order, likely forming a strong top three alongside new signing Josh Brown from Brisbane Heat and Jake Fraser-McGurk. Additionally, he is a strong candidate for the wicketkeeping role, which was previously shared by Quinton de Kock and Jordan Cox.
Seifert expressed his excitement about the new contract, stating that he looks forward to immersing himself in the club environment and contributing over the next two seasons. He is prepared to take on the top-order batting role and wicketkeeping duties if required.
Renegades general manager James Rosengarten highlighted Seifert’s dual skills as a powerful batter and an experienced international wicketkeeper. He highlighted the value of Seifert's full availability throughout the season, which is a significant advantage for the team.
The BBL draft is scheduled for September 1, with the Renegades holding picks 2, 10, 23, and 26.