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Live sport on SN this weekend‘Didn't adapt’: Seifert urges Blackcaps to learn fast after India ODI defeat
Sport Nation • November 6th, 2026 11:41 am
Opening the batting for New Zealand with Devon Conway unavailable, Tim Seifert scored 38 in the first ODI against India | Photo: Andrew Cornaga/Photosport
Tim Seifert says the Blackcaps need to adapt quicker to conditions after their opening ODI defeat to India, as they look to bounce back in Wellington.
New Zealand were unable to make the most of their opportunities in the first match at Eden Park, with Seifert admitting the side may have misjudged how the pitch would play.
“We thought potentially the wicket might have been a bit better than it was, and maybe we just didn't adapt quick enough to that,” he told Sport Nation’s Scotty & Izzy.
Tom Latham dismissed at Eden Park by incredible caught and bowled from Gurnoor Brar | Cricket Nation
The Blackcaps had initially expected a higher-scoring contest after seeing 250 posted on the same surface during the T20 series, but struggled to adjust as India took control.
The opening batter believes adapting to the conditions will be crucial in the longer ODI format, particularly against an Indian bowling attack he says has plenty of variety.
“All their bowlers are kind of a little bit different. Having a left-armer in there as well, Arshdeep (Singh), he's bowled exceptionally well in the one-dayer and in the T20s.
“I think that at the end of the day, they're just a top quality international side and the same with us as well.”
Tim Seifert shows promise at Eden Park but falters on 38 | Cricket Nation
While New Zealand's batters will be looking to find ways to put India's bowlers under pressure, Seifert was encouraged by the Blackcaps' efforts with the ball.
“I thought the bowlers bowled very well actually. I think they were actually a little bit unlucky, maybe not to pick two wickets up in that power play the way that they bowled.”
The focus now quickly shifts to Wellington, where the Blackcaps will look to make the necessary adjustments in the second ODI.
“A bit of reflecting today at training and then it's pretty quick to move on and look what's ahead of us.”
Devon Conway | Photo: BCCI
On Friday, the Blackcaps announced Devon Conway has been ruled out of the remaining ODIs against India after sustaining a concussion during fielding training on Tuesday.
Left-handed batter Nick Kelly, who was selected for ODIs four and five, joins the squad today in Wellington in replacement.
Matt Henry, who was also involved in the fielding incident with Conway, has also been cleared of concussion and is available to play the second ODI.
Listen to the full interview below:
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