Introduction: India National Cricket Team vs New Zealand National Cricket Team Timeline
The rivalry between the India national cricket team and the New Zealand national cricket team has always been exciting and full of great cricket moments. Both teams have a long history of playing against each other in Tests, One Day Internationals (ODIs), and T20 Internationals (T20Is). In this article, we will look at their cricket timeline, match highlights, key players, and more. We’ll also present a detailed timeline in table format to make it easy to understand their head-to-head journey.
Table of Contents
Overview of India vs New Zealand Cricket Rivalry
A Longstanding Rivalry
India and New Zealand have been facing each other on the cricket field since 1955. Over the years, both teams have improved and given fans many memorable matches. While India is known for its strong batting lineup, New Zealand is famous for its disciplined bowling and all-round performances.
Formats of the Game
These two teams have clashed in all three formats of international cricket:
- Test Matches
- One Day Internationals (ODIs)
- Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is)
Let’s explore their history through a detailed timeline.
India vs New Zealand Head-to-Head Timeline (Table)
| Year | Format | Series/Tournament | Venue | Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1955 | Test | First Test Series | India | Draw (1-1) |
| 1968 | Test | India Tour of NZ | New Zealand | India won 3-1 |
| 1976 | Test | NZ Tour of India | India | India won 2-0 |
| 1979 | Test | India Tour of NZ | New Zealand | NZ won 1-0 |
| 1981 | Test | NZ Tour of India | India | Draw (1-1) |
| 1985 | ODI | B&H World Championship | Australia | India won |
| 1988 | ODI | India Tour of NZ | New Zealand | NZ won 4-1 |
| 1994 | ODI | NZ Tour of India | India | India won 3-2 |
| 1999 | Test | India Tour of NZ | New Zealand | NZ won 1-0 |
| 2003 | ODI & Test | NZ Tour of India | India | India won (both formats) |
| 2009 | Test | India Tour of NZ | New Zealand | India won 1-0 |
| 2014 | ODI | India Tour of NZ | New Zealand | NZ won 4-0 |
| 2016 | Test & ODI | NZ Tour of India | India | India won both formats |
| 2019 | ODI | Cricket World Cup Semi-final | England | NZ won |
| 2020 | T20I | India Tour of NZ | New Zealand | India won 5-0 |
| 2021 | Test | World Test Championship Final | England | NZ won |
| 2022 | T20I & ODI | India Tour of NZ | New Zealand | T20I drawn, NZ won ODI |
| 2023 | ODI | Cricket World Cup | India | India won by 70 runs |
India vs New Zealand in Test Matches
Test Cricket Overview
India and New Zealand have played more than 60 Test matches against each other. While India has the upper hand in home conditions, New Zealand has often dominated in their own backyard. The first-ever Test series between the two nations was played in 1955 in India and ended in a draw.
Memorable Test Match Moments
- 1968: India won their first-ever Test series in New Zealand.
- 2021: New Zealand defeated India in the inaugural ICC World Test Championship Final.
India vs New Zealand in One Day Internationals (ODIs)
ODI Rivalry
The two teams have met in over 100 ODI matches. These games have taken place in World Cups, bilateral series, and other major tournaments. The rivalry became more intense after the 2019 World Cup.
Highlights of ODI Matches
- 1985: India defeated New Zealand in the Benson & Hedges World Championship.
- 2019 World Cup Semi-final: New Zealand knocked India out in a nail-biting match.
- 2023 World Cup: India took revenge with a solid win in the semi-final.
India vs New Zealand in T20 Internationals
T20I Battles
In the shortest format, both teams have had their share of wins. T20s have given fans thrilling finishes and super overs.
Memorable T20I Matches
- 2020: India whitewashed New Zealand 5-0 in their home ground – the first time any team did this in T20I series of 5 matches.
- 2021: India beat New Zealand in the T20 World Cup.
Key Players in India vs New Zealand Matches
Top Indian Players
- Virat Kohli: Known for his consistent performances in all formats.
- Rohit Sharma: Has played many match-winning innings.
- Jasprit Bumrah: Star pacer, known for deadly yorkers.
Top New Zealand Players
- Kane Williamson: The calm and stylish captain.
- Trent Boult: A world-class left-arm fast bowler.
- Ross Taylor: Played many classic knocks before retirement.
Recent Clashes (2023–2024)
2023 World Cup Semi-final
India defeated New Zealand in a crucial match to qualify for the final. This match was especially sweet for Indian fans because it was a chance to avenge the 2019 World Cup loss.
2024 Series Update
In the 2024 bilateral series, India won the T20I and ODI series played in India. New Zealand showed strong spirit but couldn’t match India’s depth.
Head-to-Head Summary (Overall)
Test Matches
- Matches Played: 65+
- India Wins: 22
- New Zealand Wins: 14
- Draws: 29
ODI Matches
- Matches Played: 120+
- India Wins: 58
- New Zealand Wins: 50
- No Results: 12
T20I Matches
- Matches Played: 25+
- India Wins: 14
- New Zealand Wins: 10
- Tied/No Result: 1+
India vs New Zealand: Strengths and Playing Style
India’s Strengths
- Strong batting depth.
- Skilled spinners in home conditions.
- A growing pace attack with Bumrah and Siraj.
New Zealand’s Strengths
- Smart bowlers like Boult and Southee.
- Balanced team with good fielding.
- Calm and steady leadership under Kane Williamson.
Famous Venues for India vs New Zealand Matches
- Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai – Memorable matches with packed crowd.
- Eden Park, Auckland – Short boundaries, exciting games.
- Wellington, Basin Reserve – Known for windy conditions.
- Eden Gardens, Kolkata – One of India’s iconic stadiums.
Fun Facts about the Rivalry
- New Zealand was the first team to beat India in the ICC World Test Championship final.
- India is the only team to win a 5-match T20I series 5-0 against New Zealand.
- Ross Taylor and Virat Kohli have both played 100+ matches across formats in this rivalry.
- Matches in New Zealand often begin early in Indian time, but Indian fans wake up early to watch them live!
What to Expect in the Future
As both teams look ahead, fans can expect more competitive matches. Young stars like Shubman Gill for India and Rachin Ravindra for New Zealand are adding fresh energy to the rivalry.
Upcoming Series (2025)
- India is expected to tour New Zealand in early 2025 for a multi-format series.
- Fans are excited for another chance to see close contests and rising stars in action.
Final Thoughts
The India vs New Zealand cricket rivalry is full of respect, excitement, and unforgettable moments. While India has a strong overall record, New Zealand has often surprised with smart strategies and team effort. With new talents, experienced leaders, and passionate fans, this rivalry will only get stronger in the coming years.
Whether it’s the swing-friendly pitches of New Zealand or the spin-friendly tracks of India, the clash between these two teams always promises high-quality cricket. Keep an eye on their next match—you won’t want to miss it!