Tim Seifert on explosive T20 style - 'I youtubed Brendon McCullum'

Tim Seifert's brilliant knock against India in last night's dominant Twenty20 win was reminiscent of another risk-taking Black Caps wicketkeeper in his prime.

Then again, the 24-year-old admits he's always looked up to Brendon McCullum, and he certainly looked like him in the 80-run win in Wellington.

After making his T20 debut last year, Seifert really announced himself on the international stage last night when he smashed 84 runs off 43 balls as the opener.

He said being told his place at the top of the order was a bit of a shock, but he turned to his childhood hero for an example.

"Kinda funny when I got told that I'll be opening the innings," Seifert said.

"I youtubed Brendon McCullum and watched some of his innings.

"I'd be lying if I said Baz wasn't one of my heroes growing up. Obviously you try to be yourself out there but I looked at Baz throughout my childhood."

Even his approach to hitting in the shortest format appears to replicate that of the former Black Caps captain.

"I kind of just looked at the field and, you know, it's all in the moment. I don't really practice it or anything, it's just kind of in the spirit of it.

"It's kind of a little punt you take, but it's T20 cricket for you."

McCullum became world-renowned for his aggressive style and in 71 T20s for the Black Caps, he scored 2140 runs at an average of 35.66.

His play led to him being a big name in numerous leagues around the world, including the IPL and BBL.

McCullum announced earlier this week tomorrow's BBL match for the Brisbane Heat will be his last as the 37-year-old slowly begins transitioning to a possible career in coaching.