Introduction to 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 is one of cricket’s most engaging narratives. This matchup spans across decades, formats, and continents. Whether it’s the lush green pitches of New Zealand or the spin-friendly tracks of India, each contest between these two nations adds a new layer to an already rich history. Both teams have had their share of glory and heartbreak, and the competitive spirit they bring to each match ensures fans are always in for a treat.
India and New Zealand have clashed in all three major formats: Tests, ODIs, and T20Is. Their encounters range from bilateral series to global tournaments such as the ICC Cricket World Cup, ICC World Test Championship, and the ICC T20 World Cup. The evolution of these contests over time has witnessed the emergence of new heroes, strategic masterstrokes, and moments that are etched forever in cricketing folklore.
In this article, we explore the timeline of India vs New Zealand matches, complete with a detailed breakdown of head-to-head records and a series-wise analysis presented in tabular format. The information is organized for both fans and analysts to grasp how the dynamics between these two powerhouses have changed over time.
Table of Contents
Test Matches Timeline
Overview
The battle in the longest format of the game began in 1955 and has since featured gripping series filled with turning tracks, fast bowling spells, and iconic batting performances. Traditionally, India has dominated at home while New Zealand has used its seamers effectively on green tops. This format has seen both sides challenge each other with strategic depth and cricketing excellence.
India vs New Zealand Test Series Results (Chronological)
| Year | Host Country | Number of Matches | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1955-56 | India | 5 | India won 2-0 |
| 1958-59 | New Zealand | 5 | Drawn 1-1 |
| 1964-65 | India | 4 | India won 1-0 |
| 1967-68 | New Zealand | 4 | India won 3-1 |
| 1975-76 | New Zealand | 3 | New Zealand won 1-0 |
| 1980-81 | New Zealand | 3 | New Zealand won 1-0 |
| 1988-89 | India | 3 | India won 2-1 |
| 1998-99 | New Zealand | 3 | Drawn 0-0 |
| 2002-03 | New Zealand | 2 | New Zealand won 2-0 |
| 2003-04 | India | 2 | Drawn 0-0 |
| 2012-13 | India | 2 | India won 2-0 |
| 2014 | New Zealand | 2 | New Zealand won 1-0 |
| 2016-17 | India | 3 | India won 3-0 |
| 2021 | England (Neutral, WTC Final) | 1 | New Zealand won |
| 2021-22 | India | 2 | India won 1-0 |
Head-to-Head in Tests (as of 2025)
- Total Matches: 62
- India Wins: 22
- New Zealand Wins: 13
- Draws: 27
One Day Internationals (ODIs) Timeline
Overview
The ODI format has seen some of the most thrilling encounters between India and New Zealand. Whether it was the heartbreak of the 2019 World Cup semi-final or the incredible bilateral series in both nations, the format has brought out aggressive cricket, tactical masterplans, and match-winning performances.
India vs New Zealand ODI Series & Tournament Matches
| Year | Tournament/Series | Host Country | Matches | Result |
| 1975 | World Cup | England | 1 | New Zealand won |
| 1987 | Bilateral | India | 6 | India won 4-2 |
| 1994 | Bilateral | India | 5 | India won 3-2 |
| 1999 | Bilateral | New Zealand | 5 | New Zealand won 3-2 |
| 2002-03 | Bilateral | New Zealand | 7 | New Zealand won 5-2 |
| 2009 | Bilateral | New Zealand | 5 | India won 3-1 |
| 2014 | Bilateral | New Zealand | 5 | New Zealand won 4-0 |
| 2019 | World Cup Semi-Final | England | 1 | New Zealand won |
| 2020 | Bilateral | New Zealand | 3 | New Zealand won 3-0 |
| 2023 | World Cup | India | 2 | India won both matches |
Head-to-Head in ODIs (as of 2025)
- Total Matches: 119
- India Wins: 59
- New Zealand Wins: 50
- No Result/Ties: 10
T20 Internationals (T20Is) Timeline
Overview
T20 cricket has redefined rivalries, and the battles between India and New Zealand in this shortest format have been nothing short of spectacular. India famously won a 5-0 T20I series in New Zealand in 2020, with two back-to-back Super Overs, while New Zealand pulled off a surprise in the 2021 T20 World Cup.
India vs New Zealand T20I Series & Tournament Matches
| Year | Tournament/Series | Host Country | Matches | Result |
| 2007 | T20 World Cup | South Africa | 1 | New Zealand won |
| 2012 | Bilateral | India | 2 | Drawn 1-1 |
| 2017 | Bilateral | India | 3 | India won 2-1 |
| 2019 | Bilateral | New Zealand | 3 | New Zealand won 2-1 |
| 2020 | Bilateral | New Zealand | 5 | India won 5-0 |
| 2021 | T20 World Cup | UAE | 1 | New Zealand won |
| 2023 | Bilateral | India | 3 | India won 2-1 |
Head-to-Head in T20Is (as of 2025)
- Total Matches: 27
- India Wins: 16
- New Zealand Wins: 10
- No Result: 1
Notable Individual Performances
Test Matches
- Rahul Dravid and Virender Sehwag have played match-winning innings in away Tests.
- Ross Taylor and Kane Williamson have often led New Zealand’s resistance.
ODIs
- Sachin Tendulkar scored a memorable double-century against New Zealand.
- Martin Guptill has consistently been among the top scorers against India.
T20Is
- Rohit Sharma and Suryakumar Yadav have shined with the bat.
- Tim Southee is among the top wicket-takers in this format against India.
Conclusion
The India vs New Zealand cricket rivalry has grown from a quiet beginning in the 1950s to a globally followed contest. From tense Test matches to exhilarating T20Is, these teams bring out the best in each other. While India holds an edge in overall numbers, New Zealand’s resilience and unpredictability make every series exciting. With more series and tournaments lined up in the future, the story of this rivalry is far from over. Cricket lovers around the world will continue to watch this engaging battle unfold with passion and anticipation.
Also read – Australian Men’s Cricket Team vs India National Cricket Team Timeline
