3 franchises likely to eye Tim Seifert for IPL 2026 after his blazing 125* in CPL 2025

New Zealand wicketkeeper-batter Tim Seifert lit up the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) 2025 with a breathtaking century that left fans in awe. Representing the Saint Lucia Kings, he played one of the finest innings of the tournament, showcasing his aggressive batting style and remarkable consistency at the top of the order.

His brilliance came in a high-scoring clash against the Antigua and Barbuda Falcons, who had posted an imposing total of 204/4 after batting first. Despite the pressure of chasing such a big target, Seifert took control from the very beginning, attacking the bowlers with confidence and precision.

As an opener, Seifert blasted an unbeaten 125 off 53 deliveries, hitting 10 fours and launching nine massive sixes. With a staggering strike rate of 235.85, he single-handedly carried the Kings to victory. They successfully hunted down the target in only 17.5 overs, securing a convincing six-wicket win.

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Tim Seifert Plays IPL as Temporary Replacement:

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) brought in Tim Seifert during IPL 2025 as a temporary stand-in for Jacob Bethell, who was unavailable due to international commitments. Signed for ₹2 crore specifically for the playoffs, Seifert added depth to the squad. However, RCB will not have the option to retain him before the IPL 2026 auction.

Tim Seifert has featured in just three IPL matches to date, but his T20I career stands out with 1,736 runs in 71 games at a strike rate of 142.29. In CPL 2025, he has been outstanding for Saint Lucia Kings, leading their charts with 277 runs in five innings, averaging 69.25 with a 178.70 strike rate.

Teams That Could Likely Eye Tim Seifert for IPL 2026:

With his recent form and explosive batting displays, Tim Seifert has emerged as a valuable T20 asset. Looking ahead to IPL 2026, several franchises could benefit from his skills. Here are three teams that should strongly consider pursuing the wicketkeeper-batter at the upcoming auction.

• Gujarat Titans (GT)

Gujarat Titans managed to reach the IPL 2025 playoffs but saw their campaign end in the Eliminator. Their top order looked solid, with captain Shubman Gill and Sai Sudharsan consistently delivering strong performances. At number three, Jos Buttler also added great value with his experience and aggressive batting.

However, Buttler was unavailable for the playoffs due to international commitments, forcing GT to draft in Sri Lankan batter Kusal Mendis as a temporary replacement. While the move offered a quick fix, the team clearly felt the absence of Buttler’s impact in crucial games.

Looking ahead to IPL 2026, Gujarat Titans may consider Tim Seifert as a reliable backup. The New Zealand wicketkeeper-batter can step into the top order when required, providing explosive starts and stability in Buttler’s absence.

• Chennai Super Kings (CSK)

Chennai Super Kings had a difficult IPL 2025 season, ending at the very bottom of the points table after repeated struggles. Their season was further derailed when skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad was sidelined after just five matches due to injury, leaving the side searching for stability at the top.

In Gaikwad’s absence, CSK tried different opening options, including Rahul Tripathi, Rachin Ravindra, and Devon Conway. However, none of them were able to deliver consistent performances. The team later turned to young players like Shaik Rasheed and Ayush Mhatre, but their inexperience showed in crucial games.

For IPL 2026, Tim Seifert could be a strong option. His aggressive starts and experience would strengthen the opening slot, allow Gaikwad to shift to number three, and also provide CSK with a dependable backup wicketkeeper.

• Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)

Kolkata Knight Riders, three-time champions and winners of IPL 2024, failed to replicate their success in 2025. A major concern was their inability to settle on a reliable opening pair, which ultimately hampered their campaign and cost them crucial matches.

The franchise experimented with Quinton de Kock and Rahmanullah Gurbaz as wicketkeeper-batters alongside captain Ajinkya Rahane at the top of the order. Unfortunately, both overseas options underperformed. Quinton de Kock managed only 152 runs in eight matches at 21.71, while Rahmanullah Gurbaz added 74 runs from five innings, keeping KKR’s top order unsettled.

Heading into IPL 2026, KKR will be eager for a dependable and attacking opener. Tim Seifert, who began his IPL career with them in 2021, could return as the ideal choice to resolve their opening struggles.