The rivalry between the New Zealand National Cricket Team and the Pakistan National Cricket Team is known for its unpredictability and thrilling encounters. Both teams have contrasting styles New Zealand’s discipline and Pakistan’s flair creating a fascinating cricketing battle. Their timeline is filled with dramatic finishes, ICC clashes, and memorable performances across formats.
Latest Matches
Tournament
Venue
Date
New Zealand Score
Pakistan Score
Result
Series
Bilateral ODI
Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui
Apr 5, 2025
264/8 (42 overs)
221 (40 overs)
New Zealand won by 43 runs
Pakistan tour of New Zealand 2025
Bilateral ODI
Seddon Park, Hamilton
Apr 2, 2025
292/8 (50 overs)
208 (41.2 overs)
New Zealand won by 84 runs
Pakistan tour of New Zealand 2025
Bilateral ODI
McLean Park, Napier
Mar 29, 2025
344/9 (50 overs)
271 (44.1 overs)
New Zealand won by 73 runs
Pakistan tour of New Zealand 2025
Bilateral T20I
Basin Reserve, Wellington
Mar 26, 2025
131/2 (10 overs)
128/9 (20 overs)
New Zealand won by 8 wickets
Pakistan tour of New Zealand 2025
Bilateral T20I
Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui
Mar 23, 2025
220/6 (20 overs)
105 (16.2 overs)
New Zealand won by 115 runs
Pakistan tour of New Zealand 2025
Bilateral T20I
Eden Park, Auckland
Mar 21, 2025
204 (19.5 overs)
207/1 (16 overs)
Pakistan won by 9 wickets
Pakistan tour of New Zealand 2025
Bilateral T20I
University Oval, Dunedin
Mar 18, 2025
137/5 (13.1 overs)
135/9 (15 overs)
New Zealand won by 5 wickets
Pakistan tour of New Zealand 2025
ICC & Asia Cup Matches Timeline
Tournament
Date
Result
Key Highlight
ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 (Super 8)
Feb 21, 2026
Match Abandoned (No Result)
Rain washed out the high-voltage clash
ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2022 (Semi-Final)
Nov 2022
Pakistan won by 7 wickets
Pakistan marched into the final
ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2021
Oct/Nov 2021
Pakistan won by 5 wickets
Clinical chase by Pakistan
ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2016
2016
New Zealand won by 22 runs
Kiwis defended total effectively
ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2012
2012
Pakistan won by 13 runs
Pakistan edged out a thriller
ICC Cricket World Cup (Overall)
1983–2023
Pakistan leads 8–2
Pakistan dominant in 50-over World Cups
Top 5 Standout Performances
Rank
Player
Format
Performance
Match Details
Impact
1
Tim Seifert (NZ)
T20I
97 off 38 balls
Recent bilateral T20I, Wellington
Blistering knock powered massive win
2
Jimmy Neesham (NZ)
T20I
5-wicket haul
Recent bilateral T20I
Dismantled Pakistan middle order
3
Babar Azam (PAK)
T20I/ODI
Consistent high scores (800+ runs)
Multiple series 2018–2025
Anchored Pakistan batting reliably
4
Mark Chapman (NZ)
ODI
Match-winning contributions
2025 Pakistan tour of NZ
Key all-round impact in white-ball
5
Hasan Nawaz / Shaheen Afridi (PAK)
T20I
Explosive batting / Pace bowling
2025 bilateral series
Game-changing spells and cameos
Head-to-Head & Key Performers
Format
Matches Played
New Zealand Wins
Pakistan Wins
Draws / Ties / NR
Pakistan Edge?
Test
62
14
25
23 Draws
Yes
ODI
122
57
61
1 Tie / 3 NR
Slight
T20I
49–50
23
24
2–3 NR
Very Slight
Overall
233
94
110
29 (Draws/NR)
Pakistan
Early Encounters: Pakistan’s Initial Edge (1955–1985)
The rivalry began in 1955 when New Zealand toured Pakistan for a Test series. During the early decades, Pakistan held a clear advantage with a stronger bowling attack and more experienced players. New Zealand struggled to match Pakistan’s consistency, especially in subcontinental conditions. Pakistan’s spin and pace combination proved effective in controlling matches. However, New Zealand displayed resilience, particularly in home conditions, where they occasionally challenged Pakistan. These early encounters laid the foundation for a competitive rivalry, even though results favored Pakistan. The period highlighted Pakistan’s dominance but also showed New Zealand’s potential to grow and compete at higher levels.
Year
Event
Winner
Venue
1955
Test Series
Pakistan
Pakistan
1969
Test Series
Pakistan
New Zealand
1985
Bilateral Series
Pakistan
Neutral
New Zealand’s Growth and Competitive Spirit (1986–2000)
Between 1986 and 2000, New Zealand began to improve significantly, turning the rivalry into a more balanced contest. Their disciplined bowling and improved batting lineup helped them challenge Pakistan more effectively. Matches became more competitive, with New Zealand securing key victories, especially at home. Pakistan remained a strong team, known for its unpredictable performances and match-winning bowlers. This period marked a shift where New Zealand gained confidence and proved capable of defeating Pakistan. The rivalry grew in intensity, with both teams producing exciting matches. The balance between the teams made their encounters more engaging for fans worldwide.
Year
Series/Event
Winner
Highlight
1990
Test Series
Pakistan
Close Matches
1994
ODI Series
New Zealand
Key Victory
1999
World Cup
Pakistan
Strong Performance
ICC Tournament Clashes: High-Pressure Games (2001–2010)
The rivalry gained prominence during ICC tournaments in the 2000s, where both teams faced each other in high-stakes matches. Pakistan’s flair and New Zealand’s consistency created thrilling contests. Matches during this period were often unpredictable, with momentum shifting rapidly. Both teams secured important victories, making the rivalry more balanced. These encounters highlighted the importance of adaptability and mental strength in high-pressure situations. The rivalry became more recognized globally, with fans eagerly following their matches in major tournaments.
Year
Event
Winner
Highlight
2003
World Cup
Pakistan
Dominant Win
2007
T20 World Cup
Pakistan
Strong Performance
2009
ICC Event
New Zealand
Balanced Contest
Modern Era: Balanced and Intense (2011–2018)
From 2011 to 2018, the rivalry remained highly competitive, with both teams enjoying periods of success. New Zealand’s consistency and strong team structure allowed them to perform well across formats. Pakistan continued to rely on individual brilliance and unpredictable performances. Matches were closely contested, often decided in the final overs. This era saw increased global attention on their encounters, as both teams produced high-quality cricket. The rivalry maintained its reputation for excitement and unpredictability.
Year
Series/Event
Winner
Highlight
2011
World Cup
Pakistan
Key Victory
2015
World Cup
Pakistan
Dominance
2018
Bilateral Series
New Zealand
Strong Performance
Recent Years: New Zealand’s Consistency vs Pakistan’s Flair (2019–Present)
In recent years, the rivalry has become even more exciting, with both teams performing strongly in international cricket. New Zealand has maintained consistency, reaching finals in major ICC tournaments, while Pakistan has delivered impressive performances with its dynamic squad. Matches are often closely fought, reflecting the balanced nature of the rivalry. Both teams have developed strong lineups with emerging talent, ensuring competitive encounters. This period represents the peak of unpredictability, with either team capable of winning on any given day.
Year
Series/Event
Winner
Highlight
2019
World Cup
Pakistan
Close Match
2021
T20 World Cup
Pakistan
Strong Win
2023
Bilateral Series
New Zealand
Competitive Games
Key Players and Match-Winning Performances
The New Zealand vs Pakistan rivalry has been shaped by several legendary players. New Zealand has relied on stars like Kane Williamson and Trent Boult, known for their consistency and skill. Pakistan has been guided by icons such as Wasim Akram and Babar Azam, who have delivered match-winning performances. These players have often influenced the outcomes of crucial matches, adding excitement and intensity to the rivalry. Their contributions have created memorable moments in cricket history.
Player
Team
Era
Contribution
Kane Williamson
New Zealand
Modern Era
Leadership
Trent Boult
New Zealand
Modern Era
Fast Bowling
Wasim Akram
Pakistan
1990s
Swing Bowling
Babar Azam
Pakistan
Modern Era
Batting Excellence
Future Outlook: A Rivalry Full of Promise
The future of the New Zealand vs Pakistan rivalry looks bright as both teams continue to develop and compete at the highest level. Regular encounters in ICC tournaments and bilateral series will keep the rivalry alive. New Zealand’s structured approach and Pakistan’s unpredictable brilliance ensure exciting matches. With emerging talent and improved performances, future contests are expected to be even more competitive. This rivalry represents the global appeal of cricket, where contrasting styles create thrilling encounters and unforgettable moments.
Aspect
New Zealand
Pakistan
Impact
Strength
Consistency
Flair & Talent
Balanced Rivalry
Challenge
Pressure Situations
Stability
Close Matches
Future
Strong Contender
Dynamic Team
Exciting Games
Conclusion
The timeline of the New Zealand National Cricket Team vs Pakistan National Cricket Team rivalry highlights a journey of growth, unpredictability, and intense competition. From Pakistan’s early dominance to New Zealand’s consistent rise, the rivalry has evolved into a balanced contest. Both teams have delivered thrilling matches and memorable performances, showcasing the diversity of cricketing styles. As they continue to compete on the global stage, their encounters promise even greater excitement and drama. This rivalry stands as a testament to the spirit of cricket, where skill, determination, and passion combine to create unforgettable sporting moments.
