Introduction: india national cricket team vs new zealand national cricket team match scorecard
Whenever the Indian cricket team takes on New Zealand, the world tunes in with high expectations. It’s not just another international fixture — it’s a battle between two teams that have built a reputation for producing thrilling, down-to-the-wire contests. Whether in Tests, ODIs, or T20Is, this rivalry has grown richer over the years, often delivering unforgettable moments.
In this article, we’ll walk through the India vs New Zealand match scorecard, highlight some iconic games, explore player “hibbies” (hobbies), and share extra details that make this contest so fascinating.
Table of Contents
The Story of the Rivalry
First Steps in History
India and New Zealand first crossed paths in the mid-1950s, and their cricketing relationship has only deepened since then. While New Zealand may not always enjoy the global spotlight like India, their competitive edge and tactical brilliance have made them one of India’s trickiest opponents.
- In Tests: Matches are often battles of patience and skill, with swing-friendly Kiwi conditions testing India’s batting.
- In ODIs: Both teams have shared plenty of nail-biting finishes, especially in World Cup tournaments.
- In T20Is: The shortest format has made this rivalry even more appealing, thanks to big hitting and dramatic last-over finishes.
A Glance at a Recent Scorecard
One of the most exciting showdowns came during the ICC T20 World Cup 2022 group match, where India put up a strong performance. Here’s how the game unfolded:
India’s Batting Card
- Rohit Sharma – 37 (28 balls)
- KL Rahul – 23 (21 balls)
- Virat Kohli – 44 (35 balls)
- Suryakumar Yadav – 56 (31 balls)
- Hardik Pandya – 18 (12 balls)
- Rishabh Pant – 9 (7 balls)
Team Total: 195/5 in 20 overs
New Zealand Bowling
- Trent Boult – 2/36 (4 overs)
- Tim Southee – 1/29 (4 overs)
- Mitchell Santner – 1/24 (4 overs)
- Ish Sodhi – 1/35 (4 overs)
- Lockie Ferguson – 0/41 (4 overs)
New Zealand’s Batting Card
- Devon Conway – 26 (19 balls)
- Martin Guptill – 41 (30 balls)
- Kane Williamson – 33 (27 balls)
- Glenn Phillips – 21 (14 balls)
- Daryl Mitchell – 17 (15 balls)
- James Neesham – 12 (9 balls)
Team Total: 156/8 in 20 overs
India’s Bowling
- Bhuvneshwar Kumar – 2/25 (4 overs)
- Arshdeep Singh – 3/31 (4 overs)
- Yuzvendra Chahal – 2/28 (4 overs)
- Hardik Pandya – 1/27 (3 overs)
- Axar Patel – 0/25 (3 overs)
Result: India won by 39 runs
Star Performer: Suryakumar Yadav for his 56 off 31 balls
This game reflected how India’s batting firepower and well-rounded bowling attack often tilt the balance in their favor.
Heroes of the Rivalry
Indian Icons
- Virat Kohli: Known for his unmatched ability to chase under pressure.
- Rohit Sharma: A master of big scores who often dominates Kiwi bowlers.
- Jasprit Bumrah: Deadly with yorkers, especially in crunch overs.
New Zealand Icons
- Kane Williamson: Calm and composed, Williamson is the anchor of Kiwi batting.
- Trent Boult: A swing bowler who loves challenging Indian openers.
- Martin Guptill: Explosive at the top of the order, capable of quickfire knocks.
Matches That Made History
The 2019 World Cup Semi-Final
One of the most heartbreaking nights for Indian fans. New Zealand defended 239 in Manchester, sending India out of the tournament despite Ravindra Jadeja’s heroic 77. For New Zealand, it was proof of their ability to handle high-pressure matches.
World Test Championship 2021 Final
Played in Southampton, this match gave New Zealand their first WTC title. Their disciplined seam attack dismantled India, sealing an 8-wicket victory in challenging conditions.
Home Series in 2023
India dominated the Kiwis on turning pitches, reminding everyone how difficult it is to beat them on home soil.
Hibbies (Hobbies) of Players
Off the pitch, cricketers lead interesting lives filled with hobbies that keep them grounded.
Indian Players
- Virat Kohli: Passionate about fitness, music, and traveling.
- Rohit Sharma: Loves wildlife photography and football.
- Hardik Pandya: Interested in dancing, gaming, and fashion.
- Ravindra Jadeja: Horse riding and sword tricks are his favorite pastimes.
New Zealand Players
- Kane Williamson: Avid reader and ocean lover who enjoys surfing.
- Trent Boult: Spends time fishing and playing golf.
- Martin Guptill: A gamer at heart, also enjoys outdoor activities.
- Jimmy Neesham: Known for his witty social media presence, music, and writing.
These hobbies show a different side of cricketers, making fans connect with them beyond just runs and wickets.
Head-to-Head Numbers
Tests
- Played: 65+
- India Wins: 22
- New Zealand Wins: 13
- Draws: The rest
ODIs
- Played: 115+
- India Wins: 58
- New Zealand Wins: 50
- No Results: A handful
T20Is
- Played: 25+
- India Wins: 15
- New Zealand Wins: 10
While India enjoys a better record overall, New Zealand has been a thorn in India’s side in ICC knockout matches.
Why This Rivalry Stands Out
- Different strengths: India relies on batting depth and spin, while New Zealand excels with pace and sharp fielding.
- Unpredictable results: Matches often swing back and forth.
- Global stage clashes: Many of their biggest games happen at ICC tournaments, adding extra weight.
Fans and Emotions
For Indian fans, victories against New Zealand often feel like redemption for the painful 2019 semi-final defeat. On the other hand, New Zealand supporters celebrate their team’s fighting spirit and ability to punch above their weight. Every clash sparks conversations, memes, and endless debates across social media.
Closing Thoughts
The rivalry between the India National Cricket Team and the New Zealand National Cricket Team is about more than just numbers on a scorecard. It’s about emotion, skill, and respect. From Kohli’s majestic batting to Williamson’s cool leadership, from Boult’s lethal swing to Jadeja’s all-round brilliance, these matches are packed with moments that stay in memory long after the final ball.