Introduction: New Zealand National Cricket Team vs India National Cricket Team Timeline
When it comes to exciting cricket rivalries, the matches between New Zealand and India always catch the attention of fans around the world. These two teams have played many thrilling games over the years in Tests, ODIs, and T20s. Let’s take a look at the timeline of their matches and explore more details about their cricket history, head-to-head records, and key moments.
Table of Contents
A Brief History of the Rivalry
The first time India and New Zealand faced each other in international cricket was in 1955. Since then, they’ve played hundreds of matches in all three formats. The rivalry is not as old as India vs Pakistan or the Ashes, but it has grown stronger with time.
While India has often been the stronger team on paper, New Zealand has always given a tough fight and even surprised fans with major wins in big tournaments like the World Cup and World Test Championship.
Timeline of India vs New Zealand Matches
Here is a timeline showing some key series and matches between the two teams. This includes major milestones and important events.
| Year | Format | Event or Series | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1955 | Test | India’s first tour to New Zealand | Series drawn 2-2 |
| 1968 | Test | India’s first Test series win in New Zealand | India won 3-1 |
| 1976 | Test | New Zealand’s first Test series win in India | New Zealand won 2-1 |
| 1979 | ODI | First ODI match between India and NZ | New Zealand won |
| 1992 | ODI | ICC World Cup (New Zealand) | New Zealand won by 4 wickets |
| 2002 | Test | India tour of New Zealand | New Zealand won 2-0 |
| 2003 | ODI | India won a thriller in the World Cup | India won by 7 wickets |
| 2014 | ODI & Test | India tour of New Zealand | NZ won ODI series, Test series drawn |
| 2016 | Test | India whitewashed NZ at home | India won 3-0 |
| 2019 | ODI | India beat NZ 4-1 in New Zealand | India dominant |
| 2019 | World Cup Semi-Final | NZ shocked India | NZ won by 18 runs |
| 2020 | Test | NZ whitewashed India at home | NZ won 2-0 |
| 2021 | WTC Final | World Test Championship Final | NZ beat India |
| 2022 | T20I Series | India tour of New Zealand | India won series |
| 2023 | ODI World Cup | India beat NZ in semi-final | India won |
Head-to-Head Records
Let’s look at how both teams compare across different formats:
Test Matches
- Total Matches: 65
- India Wins: 22
- New Zealand Wins: 14
- Draws: 29
India has a stronger record in Test matches, especially at home, where they have dominated New Zealand many times.
One Day Internationals (ODIs)
- Total Matches: 117
- India Wins: 59
- New Zealand Wins: 50
- No Result/Tie: 8
The ODI battle is quite close. While India has more wins, New Zealand has often won key matches, like the 2019 World Cup semi-final.
Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is)
- Total Matches: 26
- India Wins: 14
- New Zealand Wins: 10
- Tied/No Result: 2
T20Is have mostly gone India’s way in recent years. India won many matches, both at home and away.
Major Tournament Clashes
India and New Zealand have faced each other in several big tournaments like the Cricket World Cup, T20 World Cup, and World Test Championship.
ICC Cricket World Cup
- 1975–2015: Mixed results with both teams winning games
- 2019: NZ beat India in the semi-final (shock loss for India)
- 2023: India beat NZ in the semi-final and took revenge
T20 World Cup
- New Zealand often had the upper hand in T20 World Cups, beating India in key matches, including in 2007 and 2021.
World Test Championship
- 2021 Final: New Zealand defeated India in the final, becoming the first-ever WTC Champions
Key Players Over the Years
Both India and New Zealand have produced some legendary players. Here are some top names:
Indian Legends
- Sachin Tendulkar – Master Blaster who scored runs against every team
- Rahul Dravid – A wall in Tests, tough to dismiss
- Virat Kohli – Modern-day run machine and former captain
- MS Dhoni – Captain cool, especially in white-ball cricket
- Ravichandran Ashwin – Key bowler in Tests
New Zealand Stars
- Stephen Fleming – Smart captain and steady opener
- Brendon McCullum – Aggressive batsman and leader
- Kane Williamson – Classy batsman and calm captain
- Trent Boult – Left-arm swing specialist
- Tim Southee – Consistent bowler across formats
Home vs Away Records
In India
India has a very strong record at home. Spin-friendly pitches and home support have helped them dominate visiting teams, including New Zealand.
In New Zealand
Playing in New Zealand is always tough for subcontinental teams. The bouncy and green pitches favor fast bowlers. India has struggled here but has improved in recent years.
Most Memorable Matches
2019 World Cup Semi-Final
Played over two days due to rain, New Zealand shocked India by defending a low total. MS Dhoni’s run-out was the turning point, and fans still remember this painful loss.
2021 World Test Championship Final
Played in Southampton, England – a neutral venue. New Zealand won thanks to their bowling attack and solid batting from Williamson and Taylor.
2023 World Cup Semi-Final
India, with a strong team performance, finally beat New Zealand in a big knockout match. Virat Kohli scored a century, and Shami took 7 wickets.
What Makes This Rivalry Special?
- Respectful Battle: India and New Zealand play hard but show respect. There’s no off-field drama like some other rivalries.
- Unpredictable Results: Even if one team is stronger on paper, matches are often close and exciting.
- Great Sportsmanship: Players from both sides often praise each other and show true cricketing spirit.
The Future of the Rivalry
With the rise of young players like Shubman Gill, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Devon Conway, and Rachin Ravindra, this rivalry is set to grow even more exciting in the coming years.
Both teams have strong youth development and are likely to face off again in upcoming ICC events.
Final Thoughts
The matches between India and New Zealand are more than just cricket games. They are filled with emotion, skill, twists, and unforgettable moments. Whether it’s a gripping Test match, a fast-paced T20, or a high-pressure World Cup clash, fans always get something special when these two teams face off.
With their deep cricket culture, world-class players, and passionate fans, India and New Zealand will continue to entertain us for many years.
