Table of Contents
The Pakistan vs New Zealand cricket rivalry, spanning seven decades, is a captivating saga of grit, genius, and glory. From Hanif Mohammad’s elegance in the 1950s to Babar Azam’s modern mastery, every era has delivered drama—epic Test battles, World Cup heartbreaks, white-ball thrillers, and raw aggression. This timeline traces every pivotal clash, iconic performances, fan-fueled passion, and tactical evolution that define one of cricket’s most enduring rivalries.
Latest Matches
Recent Pakistan National Cricket Team Vs New Zealand National Cricket Team Timeline Encounters (as of January 2026)
| Format | Venue | Date | Toss | Batting First Score | Batting Second Score | Result | Player of the Match |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ODI | Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui | Apr 5, 2025 | Pakistan (field) | New Zealand 264/8 (42) | Pakistan 221 (40) | New Zealand won by 43 runs (DLS-adjusted 42-over match due to wet outfield) | Michael Bracewell (NZ) |
| ODI | Seddon Park, Hamilton | Apr 2, 2025 | Pakistan (field) | New Zealand 292/8 (50) | Pakistan 208 (41.2) | New Zealand won by 84 runs | Mitchell Hay (NZ) |
| ODI | McLean Park, Napier | Mar 29, 2025 | Pakistan (field) | New Zealand 344/9 (50) | Pakistan 271 (44.1) | New Zealand won by 73 runs | Mark Chapman (NZ) |
| T20I | Wellington Regional Stadium, Wellington | Mar 26, 2025 | New Zealand (field) | Pakistan 128/9 (20) | New Zealand 131/2 (10) | New Zealand won by 8 wickets (with 60 balls remaining) | James Neesham (NZ) |
| T20I | Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui | Mar 23, 2025 | Pakistan (field) | New Zealand 220/6 (20) | Pakistan 105 (16.2) | New Zealand won by 115 runs | Finn Allen (NZ) |
| T20I | Eden Park, Auckland | Mar 21, 2025 | Pakistan (field) | New Zealand 204 (19.5) | Pakistan 207/1 (16) | Pakistan won by 9 wickets (with 24 balls remaining) | Hassan Nawaz (Pak) |
| T20I | University of Otago Oval, Dunedin | Mar 18, 2025 | New Zealand (field) | Pakistan 135/9 (15) | New Zealand 137/5 (13.1) | New Zealand won by 5 wickets (with 11 balls remaining; rain-reduced 15-over match) | Tim Seifert (NZ) |
| T20I | Hagley Oval, Christchurch | Mar 16, 2025 | New Zealand (field) | Pakistan 91 (18.4) | New Zealand 92/1 (10.1) | New Zealand won by 9 wickets (with 59 balls remaining) | Kyle Jamieson (NZ) |
| T20I | Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore | Apr 27, 2024 | New Zealand (field) | Pakistan 178/5 (20) | New Zealand 169 (19.2) | Pakistan won by 9 runs | Shaheen Afridi (Pak) |
| T20I | Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore | Apr 25, 2024 | Pakistan (field) | New Zealand 178/7 (20) | Pakistan 174/8 (20) | New Zealand won by 4 runs | William O’Rourke (NZ) |
| T20I | Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi | Apr 21, 2024 | New Zealand (field) | Pakistan 178/4 (20) | New Zealand 179/3 (18.2) | New Zealand won by 7 wickets (with 10 balls remaining) | Mark Chapman (NZ) |
| T20I | Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi | Apr 20, 2024 | Pakistan (field) | New Zealand 90 (19.1) | Pakistan 92/3 (12.1) | Pakistan won by 7 wickets (with 47 balls remaining) | Shaheen Afridi (Pak) |
| T20I | Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi | Apr 18, 2024 | New Zealand (bat) | New Zealand 2/1 (0.2) | N/A | No result (rain) | N/A |
| T20I | Hagley Oval, Christchurch | Jan 21, 2024 | Pakistan (bat) | Pakistan 134/8 (20) | New Zealand 92 (17.2) | Pakistan won by 42 runs | Iftikhar Ahmed (Pak) |
| T20I | Hagley Oval, Christchurch | Jan 19, 2024 | New Zealand (field) | Pakistan 158/5 (20) | New Zealand 159/3 (18.1) | New Zealand won by 7 wickets (with 11 balls remaining) | Daryl Mitchell (NZ) |
The Spark That Lit the Fire: Inaugural Clashes in the 1950s – Pakistan’s Home Dominance Sets the Tone
Back in October 1955, cricket fans in Karachi witnessed something special: the very first official clash between Pakistan and New Zealand. New Zealand, still a young Test nation finding their way on foreign soil, toured Pakistan for a three-Test series. The Black Caps won the toss at the National Stadium and elected to bat first, but they quickly discovered how unforgiving subcontinental conditions could be. Pakistan’s bowlers, led by the crafty Zulfiqar Ahmed and the swing of Fazal Mahmood, exploited the slow, turning pitch masterfully. New Zealand crumbled to 164 all out in their first innings, with Matt Poore’s 43 standing as the lone resistance amid a collapse triggered by Zulfiqar’s five-wicket haul. The Kiwi batting lineup, unaccustomed to the spin traps and variable bounce, looked tentative from the start.
Pakistan responded with grit and class. Hanif Mohammad fell early for 5, but Imtiaz Ahmed anchored with a fighting 64, while Wazir Mohammad (43) and Shujauddin Butt (47) steadied the ship. Fazal Mahmood contributed a handy 34 not out as Pakistan piled up 289, gaining a commanding 125-run lead. Tony MacGibbon took four wickets for the visitors, but it wasn’t enough to stem the tide. In the second innings, New Zealand fought back briefly through John Leggat’s 39, but Zulfiqar returned with devastating figures of 6/42, bundling them out for 124. Pakistan won by an innings and 1 run, marking a historic triumph in their inaugural encounter.
The series continued with Pakistan’s dominance. In Lahore, they chased down a target after massive first-innings totals, winning by 4 wickets. The third Test in Dacca ended in a draw due to rain interruptions, but Pakistan sealed the series 2-0. These early matches laid the foundation: Pakistan’s spin mastery versus New Zealand’s emerging resilience, with fan passion already simmering.
| Match | Venue | Dates | Toss | Result | New Zealand 1st Inns | Pakistan 1st Inns | New Zealand 2nd Inns | Pakistan 2nd Inns (Target) | Key Performances | Notes/Records |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1st Test | National Stadium, Karachi | Oct 13-17, 1955 | NZ bat | Pakistan won by inns & 1 run | 164 (133.2 ov) Poore 43; Zulfiqar Ahmed 5/37, Kardar 3/35 | 289 (130.5 ov) Imtiaz Ahmed 64, Shujauddin 47, Wazir Mohammad 43; MacGibbon 4/98, Cave 3/56 | 124 (108.3 ov) Leggat 39; Zulfiqar Ahmed 6/42, Shujauddin 3/22 | – | Zulfiqar Ahmed 5/37 & 6/42 (match haul 11 wkts) | First-ever Test between teams; Pakistan’s debut series win start |
| 2nd Test | Bagh-e-Jinnah, Lahore | Oct 26-31, 1955 | NZ bat | Pakistan won by 4 wkts | 348 (160.5 ov) McGregor 111, Harford 93; Khan Mohammad 4/78 | 561 (185.3 ov) Waqar Hasan 189, Imtiaz Ahmed 209; Moir 4/114 | 328 (158.2 ov) Reid 86, Harford 64; Zulfiqar Ahmed 4/114, Kardar 3/47 | 117/6 (26.5 ov) Hanif Mohammad 33, Alimuddin 37; Reid 4/38 | Waqar Hasan 189 & Imtiaz Ahmed 209 (double ton); Highest team total in series | Pakistan chased 116 with ease; series clinched 2-0 |
| 3rd Test | Dacca Stadium, Dacca | Nov 7-12, 1955 | NZ bat | Match drawn | 70 (39.2 ov) Guy 11*; Khan Mohammad 6/21, Fazal Mahmood 3/34 | 195/6d (76 ov) Hanif Mohammad 103*; Reid 2/67, Cave 3/45 | 69/6 (90 ov) MacGibbon 7*; Khan Mohammad 2/20 | – | Hanif Mohammad 103; Khan Mohammad 6/21 (1st inns) | Rain washed out Days 1-2; Low-scoring draw; Pakistan won series 2-0 |
Stalemates Turn to Skirmishes: The 1960s – Draws, Debuts, and Building Rival Respect
The 1960s marked a shift from Pakistan’s early dominance to a more even contest, where Tests often ended in hard-fought stalemates that tested patience and built mutual respect. The decade kicked off with Pakistan touring New Zealand in 1964/65 for a three-Test series, followed by New Zealand’s reciprocal visit later that year—both yielding draws in New Zealand but decisive wins for Pakistan at home.
In the away leg (January-February 1965), all three Tests were drawn amid tight bowling and weather interruptions. Wellington’s first Test saw New Zealand post 266, but Pakistan’s reply faltered at 187; the follow-on chase ended safely at 140/7. Auckland and Christchurch followed suit—low-scoring battles with no side able to force victory. New Zealand’s seamers like Dick Motz and Bruce Taylor probed relentlessly, while Pakistan’s spinners and Hanif Mohammad’s class held firm. These matches highlighted tactical caution: defensive fields, marathon batting, and few fireworks, yet subtle aggression simmered in close appeals and determined stares.
The return series in Pakistan (March-April 1965) flipped the script. Pakistan crushed New Zealand in Rawalpindi by an innings and 64 runs—Saeed Ahmed’s 68 anchored 318 after New Zealand’s 175 collapse to spin. Lahore’s epic draw featured Hanif’s marathon 203* (445 minutes, 33 fours) and a 217-run sixth-wicket stand with Majid Khan—a Pakistan record—while New Zealand replied with 482/6d (Barry Sinclair 130, John Reid 88). Karachi sealed the 2-0 series win: Pakistan chased 202/2 comfortably after declarations and spin traps.
| Match | Venue | Dates | Toss | Result | New Zealand 1st Inns | Pakistan 1st Inns | New Zealand 2nd Inns | Pakistan 2nd Inns (Target) | Key Performances | Notes/Records |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1st Test (Pak in NZ) | Basin Reserve, Wellington | Jan 22-26, 1965 | Pak field | Match drawn | 266 (114.2 ov) Congdon 99, Reid 88; Asif Iqbal 4/44 | 187 (97.4 ov) Saeed Ahmed 68; Taylor 3/38, Motz 3/52 | 179/7d (64 ov) Dowling 71; Asif Iqbal best bowling | 140/7 (target 259) Hanif Mohammad 35*; Yuile 3/38 | Asif Iqbal’s haul; last 6 NZ wkts for 5 runs | Series level 0-0 after this; tight chase |
| 2nd Test (Pak in NZ) | Eden Park, Auckland | Jan 29-Feb 2, 1965 | NZ bat | Match drawn | 208 & 48/1 (target low, rain) Sinclair 98; Pervez Sajjad spin | 161 (slow scoring) Hanif 62; Cameron 4/ | Minimal play Day 5 | – | Record 9th wkt partnership 52 (Intikhab/Arif Butt) | Heavy maidens (71 in Pak inns); tactical patience |
| 3rd Test (Pak in NZ) | Lancaster Park, Christchurch | Feb 12-16, 1965 | Pak field | Match drawn | All draws in NZ leg | Low-scoring stalemate | Defensive masterclass | – | Motz/Taylor seam dominance vs Pak spin | Full series drawn 0-0; building respect |
| 1st Test (NZ in Pak) | Pindi Club Ground, Rawalpindi | Mar 27-30, 1965 | Pak field | Pakistan won by inns & 64 runs | 175 (56.5 ov) Taylor 76; Pervez Sajjad 4/42 | 318 (116.3 ov) Saeed Ahmed 68; Taylor 3/38 | 79 (all out) Collapse to spin | – | Pakistan’s 1st Test win in 6 years; Reid’s 53rd consecutive Test (world record) | Series lead 1-0; spin traps deadly |
| 2nd Test (NZ in Pak) | Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore | Apr 2-7, 1965 | NZ bat | Match drawn | 482/6d (209 ov) Sinclair 130, Reid 88, Dowling 83; Intikhab 1/92 | 385/7d (167 ov) Hanif Mohammad 203*, Majid Khan 80; Cameron 4/90 | – (no 4th inns needed) | 194/8d (77 ov) Majid 44, Asif Iqbal 43; Pollard/Sinclair | Hanif 203* (445 min, 33×4); 217-run 6th wkt record (Hanif-Majid); NZ 3rd wkt 178 record vs Pak | Epic stalemate; 3 keepers used by NZ (Dick ill, Reid/Sub Congdon) |
| 3rd Test (NZ in Pak) | National Stadium, Karachi | Apr 9-14, 1965 | NZ bat | Pakistan won by 8 wkts | 285 & 223 | 307/8d & 202/2 (target 202) | – | Saeed Ahmed 172 (1st inns highlight) | Series clinched 2-0; Saeed’s marathon | Home dominance returns; tactical spin mastery |
White-Ball Revolution and First Blood: 1970s – ODIs Arrive Amid Test Tussles
The 1970s brought a seismic shift to the Pakistan-New Zealand rivalry with the dawn of One Day Internationals, injecting pace and drama into their encounters. It all started amid the 1972/73 Test series in New Zealand, where Pakistan arrived battle-hardened from tours in Sri Lanka and Australia. The Tests were gritty affairs: the opener in Wellington drew after Pakistan’s 357 (Majid Khan 119) and 290/6d, with New Zealand clinging on at 78/3. But Dunedin’s second Test saw Pakistan unleash fury, declaring at 507/6 (Sadiq Mohammad 166, Mushtaq Mohammad 201) before Sarfraz Nawaz’s bouncers demolished New Zealand for 156 and 185, securing an innings win by 166 runs. Auckland’s finale drew, leveling the series 1-0 for Pakistan.
Then came the revolution: the maiden ODI on February 11, 1973, at Christchurch’s Lancaster Park. New Zealand batted first, scraping 187 on a lively pitch—Mark Burgess’s 47 the glue amid Sarfraz’s fiery 4/46. Pakistan chased 188 but faltered to 165, with Dayle Hadlee’s 4/34 swinging it for the hosts by 22 runs. Sadiq Mohammad’s 37 offered hope, but run-outs and pressure crumbled them. This white-ball debut added aggression: short balls flew, stares intensified, and fans in Christchurch erupted, loving the quick thrills versus Test grinds.
Fast-forward to 1976/77, New Zealand toured Pakistan. Lahore’s opener saw Pakistan chase down a target for a six-wicket win, Hyderabad drew, and Karachi ended with a 10-wicket thrashing by Pakistan. Fan passion boiled in Lahore crowds, chanting for Sarfraz’s pace that intimidated Kiwis. Then 1978/79 flipped to New Zealand soil: Pakistan won Christchurch by 128 runs, but Napier and Auckland drew, tying the series 1-0. These clashes built respect amid rising tension—Javed Miandad’s emergence clashed with Richard Hadlee’s grit, setting up personal duels. Tactics evolved: Pakistan’s spin-pace mix versus New Zealand’s seam resilience, with ODIs hinting at future fireworks.
| Match | Venue | Dates | Toss | Result | New Zealand 1st Inns | Pakistan 1st Inns | New Zealand 2nd Inns | Pakistan 2nd Inns (Target) | Key Performances | Notes/Records |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1st Test (Pak in NZ 1972/73) | Basin Reserve, Wellington | Feb 2-5, 1973 | Pak bat | Match drawn | 325 (Reid 128, Pollard 105*; Sarfraz Nawaz 4/88) | 357 (Majid Khan 119, Mushtaq Mohammad 100; Hadlee 4/101) | 78/3 (Turner 31*; Intikhab Alam 2/17) | 290/6d (Sadiq Mohammad 98, Asif Iqbal 60*; Howarth 3/102) | Mushtaq 100 & Majid 119; Pollard 105* | Pakistan’s first Test series win outside Asia; high-scoring draw |
| 2nd Test (Pak in NZ 1972/73) | Carisbrook, Dunedin | Feb 7-10, 1973 | Pak bat | Pakistan won by inns & 166 runs | 156 (Hastings 37; Sarfraz Nawaz 4/44, Asif Masood 3/49) | 507/6d (Mushtaq Mohammad 201, Sadiq Mohammad 166; Hadlee 2/109) | 185 (Congdon 58; Intikhab Alam 5/91, Sarfraz Nawaz 3/53) | – | Mushtaq 201 (record double ton); Intikhab 5/91 | Biggest innings win for Pak vs NZ; aggressive pace attack dominates |
| Only ODI (Pak in NZ 1972/73) | Lancaster Park, Christchurch | Feb 11, 1973 | Pak field | New Zealand won by 22 runs | 187 (38.3/40 ov) Burgess 47, Wadsworth 30; Sarfraz Nawaz 4/46, Saleem Altaf 2/22 | – | – | 165 (33.3/40 ov, T:188) Sadiq Mohammad 37, Mushtaq Mohammad 27; Dayle Hadlee 4/34, Howarth 2/30 | Dayle Hadlee 4/34 (best figs); Sarfraz 4/46 | First-ever ODI between teams; low-scoring thriller introduces white-ball aggression |
| 3rd Test (Pak in NZ 1972/73) | Eden Park, Auckland | Feb 16-19, 1973 | Pak bat | Match drawn | 402 (Hastings 110, Turner 223; Intikhab Alam 4/143) | 402 (Majid Khan 110, Asif Iqbal 175; Collinge 3/88) | 92/3 (Turner 40*; Sarfraz Nawaz 2/32) | 271 (Mushtaq Mohammad 117; Howarth 4/85) | Turner 223 (NZ record vs Pak); Asif Iqbal 175 | Epic batting displays; drawn series 1-0 to Pakistan |
| 1st Test (NZ in Pak 1976/77) | Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore | Oct 9-13, 1976 | NZ bat | Pakistan won by 6 wkts | 157 (Turner 52; Sarfraz Nawaz 4/46) | 360 (Javed Miandad 163, Asif Iqbal 152; O’Sullivan 5/59) | 429 (Congdon 131, Burgess 87; Intikhab Alam 5/134) | 178/4 (T:227) Miandad 85*; O’Sullivan 2/60 | Miandad 163 (debut ton); Intikhab 5/134 | Miandad’s debut heroics; Pakistan chase under pressure |
| 2nd Test (NZ in Pak 1976/77) | Niaz Stadium, Hyderabad | Oct 16-20, 1976 | Pak bat | Match drawn | 473/8d (Burgess 119*, Edwards 100*; Mushtaq Mohammad 4/80) | 359 (Haroon Rasheed 108; Cairns 5/84) | – | 254/5 (Miandad 81; O’Sullivan 2/75) | Edwards 100* & Burgess 119*; Cairns 5/84 | High totals; rain-affected draw with tactical declarations |
| 3rd Test (NZ in Pak 1976/77) | National Stadium, Karachi | Oct 30-Nov 4, 1976 | NZ bat | Pakistan won by 10 wkts | 195 (Turner 65; Imran Khan 5/59) | 564/5d (Miandad 206, Asif Iqbal 119; Cairns 2/120) | 157 (Burgess 44; Sarfraz Nawaz 4/44) | – (T:1) 1/0 | Miandad 206 (double ton); Imran 5/59 | Pakistan whitewash 2-0; dominant home performance |
| 1st Test (Pak in NZ 1978/79) | Lancaster Park, Christchurch | Feb 2-7, 1979 | Pak bat | Pakistan won by 128 runs | 271 (Turner 84; Imran Khan 6/59) | 176 (Miandad 81; Hadlee 5/62) | 169 (Burgess 50; Sikander Bakht 5/57) | 323 (Asif Iqbal 104; Hadlee 5/104) (T:249) | Hadlee 5/62 & 5/104 (10-wkt match); Imran 6/59 | Tense low-scorer; Pakistan edge ahead |
| 2nd Test (Pak in NZ 1978/79) | McLean Park, Napier | Feb 16-21, 1979 | Pak bat | Match drawn | 323 (Howarth 102*; Sarfraz Nawaz 4/89) | 360 (Miandad 160*; Cairns 4/85) | 217/4d (Wright 88; Mushtaq 2/55) | 181/3 (T:181) Miandad 92* | Miandad 160* & 92*; Howarth 102* | Batting-friendly; drawn amid rain |
| 3rd Test (Pak in NZ 1978/79) | Eden Park, Auckland | Feb 23-28, 1979 | NZ bat | Match drawn | 281 (Wright 88; Sarfraz Nawaz 4/72) | 254 (Talat Ali 83; Hadlee 4/90) | 254/5d (Burgess 105; Imran Khan 3/60) | 228/5 (Miandad 62; Hadlee 3/85) (T:282) | Burgess 105; Hadlee 7 wkts match | Thrilling chase falls short; series 1-0 to Pakistan |
World Cup Drama and Turning Tides: 1990s – Semi-Finals, Upsets, and Inzamam’s Era
The 1990s transformed the Pakistan-New Zealand rivalry into high-stakes theater, blending brutal Test dominance with heart-stopping World Cup magic. It kicked off explosively with New Zealand’s 1990/91 tour to Pakistan. Imran Khan’s side delivered a ruthless 3-0 Test whitewash, powered by Waqar Younis and Wasim Akram’s lethal pace duo. In Karachi’s opener, New Zealand collapsed to 196 despite Greatbatch’s resistance, while Pakistan chased comfortably after Rameez Raja and Shoaib Mohammad’s opening stand. Lahore saw Waqar claim 7/86 in the second innings for a 65-run win. Faisalabad’s finale featured Waqar’s 11-wicket haul (including dismissing all 11 batsmen—a rare feat), sealing victory by an innings and more. The accompanying ODI series went 3-0 to Pakistan, with Waqar’s swing terrorizing Kiwis.
Then came the pinnacle: the 1992 World Cup semi-final at Eden Park, Auckland. Co-hosts New Zealand posted 262/7, Martin Crowe anchoring with 91. Pakistan stumbled early at 105/4, needing 158 from 31 overs. Enter Inzamam-ul-Haq, just 22, unleashing a blistering 60 off 37 balls—powerful pulls, audacious drives—that flipped the game. Javed Miandad’s calm 57* guided the chase to 264/6 with six balls left. Fans in Auckland and back home erupted; Pakistani streets exploded in joy as Inzamam became an instant legend, his aggression silencing the home crowd.
Other clashes added spice: 1993/94 ODIs in New Zealand saw competitive battles, but Pakistan’s 1990s edge—spin traps at home, Inzamam’s clutch heroics—shifted tides dramatically. Wasim vs Crowe duels brought mutual respect laced with fire; on-field sledging heated up, fans traded chants across continents. This era etched Inzamam’s name forever, turning underdogs into champions and fueling endless rivalry passion.
| Match | Venue | Dates | Toss | Result | New Zealand 1st Inns / Total | Pakistan 1st Inns / Total | New Zealand 2nd Inns / Target | Pakistan 2nd Inns / Target | Key Performances | Notes/Records |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1st Test (NZ in Pak 1990/91) | National Stadium, Karachi | Oct 10-15, 1990 | NZ bat | Pakistan won by 7 wkts | 196 (Greatbatch 117; Waqar Younis 5/76) | 170/0d (Rameez Raja 89*, Shoaib Mohammad 81*) & chase | 93 (Waqar Younis 7/86) | 125/3 (T:124) | Waqar Younis 5/76 & 7/86 (match 12 wkts) | Series opener; Waqar announces dominance |
| 2nd Test (NZ in Pak 1990/91) | Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore | Oct 18-23, 1990 | Pak field | Pakistan won by 65 runs | 102 & 357 (Crowe 82; Wasim Akram 5/65) | 357 (Miandad 100+; Morrison 4/) | 177 (collapse; Waqar 4/46) | – | Wasim Akram & Waqar shared 10 wkts; Miandad ton | Tense low-scorer; Pakistan lead 2-0 |
| 3rd Test (NZ in Pak 1990/91) | Iqbal Stadium, Faisalabad | Oct 26-31, 1990 | NZ bat | Pakistan won by inns & 13 runs | 102 (Crowe 5; Waqar Younis 7/25) | 357 (Saleem Malik 100+; Pringle 3/) | 177 (Rutherford 45; Waqar 4/46) | – | Waqar Younis 7/25 & 4/46 (11 wkts match, dismissed all 11 NZ batsmen) | Whitewash sealed 3-0; Waqar’s career-best series (29 wkts @10.86) |
| 1st ODI (NZ in Pak 1990/91) | Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore | Nov 2, 1990 | NZ bat | Pakistan won by 19 runs | 177/10 (39.2/40 ov) (Jones 47; Mushtaq Ahmed 2/4, Waqar 5/20) | 196/8 (40 ov) (Saeed Anwar 58; Pringle 3/) | – | T:197 | Waqar Younis 5/20 | Waqar terrorizes in white-ball |
| 2nd ODI (NZ in Pak 1990/91) | Arbab Niaz Stadium, Peshawar | Nov 4, 1990 | Pak field | Pakistan won by 6 wkts | Low total; Waqar swing | Chase comfortable | – | – | Saeed Anwar MoM | Series lead 2-0 |
| 3rd ODI (NZ in Pak 1990/91) | Jinnah Stadium, Sialkot | Nov 6, 1990 | – | Pakistan won by large margin | Collapse | Dominant chase | – | – | Ramiz Raja MoM | 3-0 ODI whitewash |
| 1st Semi-Final (1992 WC) | Eden Park, Auckland | Mar 21, 1992 | NZ bat | Pakistan won by 4 wkts (6b rem) | 262/7 (50 ov) (Crowe 91; Wasim Akram 2/40, Mushtaq Ahmed 2/40) | – | – | 264/6 (49 ov, T:263) Inzamam-ul-Haq 60 (37b), Miandad 57* | Inzamam 60 off 37 (blitz); Miandad calm anchor | Iconic chase; Inzamam MoM; Pakistan to final (won WC) |
Modern Mayhem: 2010s – Black Caps Rise, Babar’s Brilliance, and UAE Exiles
The 2010s turned the Pakistan-New Zealand rivalry into a modern thriller, with New Zealand’s Black Caps surging under Brendon McCullum and Kane Williamson while Pakistan battled security issues, playing “home” matches in the UAE. It started with controversy in 2011 when spot-fixing allegations rocked the Abu Dhabi Test. New Zealand won the series 1-1, with Tim Southee’s swing dismantling Pakistan’s top order. The 2014/15 UAE series saw Black Caps dominate 2-0 in Tests, Trent Boult and Southee’s deadly new-ball attack exposing Pakistan’s batting fragility.
ODIs and T20s brought fireworks. In 2018, Pakistan returned home after eight years, winning the T20I series 2-1 in Lahore with Shaheen Afridi’s raw pace electrifying crowds. Babar Azam emerged as the new batting king, scoring centuries against Kane Williamson’s classy knocks—true modern batting duels. The 2018 Abu Dhabi Test saw Yasir Shah’s spin masterclass, but New Zealand’s resilience shone in chases. Aggression peaked with bouncer barrages, on-field stares, and fiery send-offs; Shaheen vs Ross Taylor clashes were intense. Fans went wild—Lahore erupted in 2018, while UAE crowds created electric atmospheres despite neutral venues.
Tactical battles evolved: Black Caps’ aggressive powerplays vs Pakistan’s spin twins in UAE. This decade showcased Babar’s rise to greatness, Williamson’s calm leadership, and a rivalry that blended dominance, upsets, and pure drama.
| Match | Format | Venue | Dates | Toss | Result | New Zealand Total / Inns | Pakistan Total / Inns | Key Performances | Margin / Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1st Test (NZ in UAE 2010/11) | Test | Dubai | Nov 12-16, 2010 | NZ bat | Match drawn | 350 & 461/5d (Taylor 131*, Williamson 68) | 393 & 261/6 (target 419) (Misbah-ul-Haq 82*) | Taylor 131*; Misbah 82* | Drawn; controversial spot-fixing scandal overshadowed |
| 2nd Test (NZ in UAE 2010/11) | Test | Abu Dhabi | Nov 20-24, 2010 | NZ bat | New Zealand won by 10 wkts | 507 (Taylor 129, Watling 73) | 281 & 225 (Misbah 73) | Southee 5/62; Taylor 129 | NZ win by inns & 1 run; series 1-0 |
| 3rd Test (NZ in UAE 2014/15) | Test | Sharjah | Nov 26-Dec 1, 2014 | Pak bat | New Zealand won by 185 runs | 351 & 690/6d (Williamson 192, Taylor 104*) | 281 & 575 (Younis Khan 127, Azhar Ali 97) | Williamson 192; Southee 6/68 (2nd inns) | NZ whitewash 2-0; highest total in series |
| 1st T20I (Pak in NZ 2018) | T20I | Wellington | Jan 22, 2018 | NZ bat | New Zealand won by 5 wkts | 105/6 (20 ov) (Munro 34) | – | – | 106/5 (T:106) (Babar Azam 40*) |
| 2nd T20I (Pak in NZ 2018) | T20I | Hamilton | Jan 25, 2018 | Pak field | Pakistan won by 2 wkts | 153/7 (20 ov) (Williamson 72) | – | – | 154/8 (T:154) (Babar 50*, Fakhar Zaman 43) |
| 3rd T20I (Pak in NZ 2018) | T20I | Auckland | Jan 28, 2018 | NZ bat | Pakistan won by 8 wkts | 166/6 (20 ov) | – | – | 167/2 (T:167) (Babar Azam 101*) |
| 1st Test (Pak in UAE 2018) | Test | Abu Dhabi | Nov 16-20, 2018 | NZ bat | Match drawn | 153 & 249/8 (Taylor 82) | 227 & 171/5 (target 176) (Babar Azam 127*) | Babar Azam 127*; Yasir Shah 4/119 | Drawn; Babar saves match with ton |
| 2nd Test (Pak in UAE 2018) | Test | Dubai | Nov 24-28, 2018 | Pak bat | Match drawn | 274 & 35/1 | 227 & 171/5d | Yasir Shah 7/184 (match); Williamson 139 | Drawn; spin battle |
| 3rd Test (Pak in UAE 2018) | Test | Sharjah | Dec 3-7, 2018 | NZ bat | New Zealand won by 123 runs | 171 & 249 (Williamson 112) | 227 & 171 (target 194) | Ajaz Patel 5/59; Babar Azam 51 | NZ series win 1-0; home dominance ends |
| 1st ODI (Pak in NZ 2018) | ODI | Wellington | Jan 19, 2018 | NZ bat | New Zealand won by 5 wkts | 257/4 (48.1 ov) (Williamson 64*) | 257 (Babar Azam 103) | Babar Azam 103 | Tense chase; Williamson MoM |
| 2nd ODI (Pak in NZ 2018) | ODI | Christchurch | Jan 22, 2018 | Pak field | New Zealand won by 15 runs (D/L) | 257/9 (50 ov) | 240/9 (target 257) | Munro 87; Hasan Ali 4/62 | NZ lead series 2-0 |
| 3rd ODI (Pak in NZ 2018) | ODI | Wellington | Jan 25, 2018 | NZ bat | Pakistan won by 6 wkts | 262 (Taylor 95) | 263/4 (48.5 ov) (Babar Azam 88*, Haris Sohail 68) | Babar Azam 88*; series 1-2 | Pakistan fight back |
Pandemic Pivots and Contemporary Clashes: 2020s to 2026 – Hybrid Eras, Thrillers, and Future Legends
The 2020s tested the Pakistan-New Zealand rivalry like never before, with COVID bubbles, bio-secure venues, and shifting formats creating hybrid drama. It began in late 2020 when New Zealand hosted Pakistan amid strict protocols. Mount Maunganui’s first Test saw Kane Williamson’s masterclass (251) and Tim Southee’s swing demolish Pakistan for a 101-run win. Christchurch followed with a crushing innings-and-176-run victory—New Zealand’s 659/6d exposed Pakistan’s vulnerabilities, sealing a 2-0 series whitewash. Pressure was immense: players isolated, fans absent, yet on-field aggression flared with fiery bouncers and heated appeals.
The 2022/23 tour to Pakistan brought relief and draws—Karachi and Multan Tests ended in stalemates after massive totals and rain, but Babar Azam’s centuries clashed with Williamson’s calm. T20 thrills peaked in the 2022 World Cup semi-final at Sydney: New Zealand’s 152/4 looked defendable, but Mohammad Rizwan (57*) and Mohammad Haris powered Pakistan to a 7-wicket win with balls to spare, sending fans wild worldwide.
Fast-forward to 2025: Pakistan’s tour of New Zealand delivered T20 fireworks. Christchurch opener saw New Zealand chase 92 with ease (9-wkt win); series swung with Pakistan’s 9-wkt thrashing in Auckland, but Kiwis dominated overall 4-1, James Neesham and Jacob Duffy starring. ODIs followed with New Zealand sweeping 3-0—bracewell’s all-round brilliance and tight bowling in Hamilton and Bay Oval sealed it. Champions Trophy 2025 opener in Karachi saw New Zealand post 320/5 (Will Young ton), winning by 60 runs despite Pakistan’s fight.
Emerging legends shine: Shaheen Afridi’s pace barrages vs Devon Conway’s technique, Haris Rauf’s death bowling vs Finn Allen’s power. Aggression peaks in mic’d-up banter and Super Over tension; fans create viral moments—Lahore streets erupt for upsets, Christchurch crowds roar for home dominance. Tactics evolve with data-driven powerplays and spin in dew. As 2026 looms with potential T20 World Cup clashes, this era blends resilience, thrillers, and future icons in a rivalry that’s fiercer than ever.
| Match | Format | Venue | Dates | Toss | Result | New Zealand Total / Inns | Pakistan Total / Inns | Key Performances | Margin / Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1st Test (Pak in NZ 2020/21) | Test | Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui | Dec 26-30, 2020 | NZ bat | New Zealand won by 101 runs | 431 & 180/5d (Williamson 251) | 239 & 271 | Williamson 251; Southee swing | Bio-bubble thriller; series lead |
| 2nd Test (Pak in NZ 2020/21) | Test | Hagley Oval, Christchurch | Jan 3-7, 2021 | Pak bat | New Zealand won by inns & 176 runs | 659/6d (Williamson 238) | 297 & 186 | Williamson 238; Jamieson 6 wkts | Whitewash 2-0; record total |
| 1st Semi-Final (T20 WC 2022) | T20I | Sydney Cricket Ground | Nov 9, 2022 | NZ bat | Pakistan won by 7 wkts (5b rem) | 152/4 (20 ov) (Williamson 46) | 153/3 (19.1 ov) (Rizwan 57*, Haris 28) | Rizwan 57*; Shaheen 2/24 | Epic chase; Pakistan to final |
| 1st Test (NZ in Pak 2022/23) | Test | National Stadium, Karachi | Dec 26-30, 2022 | NZ bat | Match drawn | 438 & 311/8d (Jamieson 6/48) | 612/9d & 61/1 (Babar Azam 161) | Babar 161; Abrar Ahmed spin | High-scoring draw |
| 2nd Test (NZ in Pak 2022/23) | Test | Multan Cricket Stadium | Jan 2-6, 2023 | Pak bat | Match drawn | 133/5d & 277/8d | 576/5d (Saud Shakeel 208) | Shakeel 208; Naseem Shah pace | Rain-affected stalemate; series drawn |
| 1st T20I (Pak in NZ 2025) | T20I | Hagley Oval, Christchurch | Mar 16, 2025 | NZ field | New Zealand won by 9 wkts | 92/1 (10.1 ov) | 91 (18.4 ov) | Seifert/Allen chase | Dominant start; series opener |
| 3rd T20I (Pak in NZ 2025) | T20I | Eden Park, Auckland | Mar 21, 2025 | NZ bat | Pakistan won by 9 wkts | 204 | 207/1 | Explosive chase | Pakistan fightback |
| 4th T20I (Pak in NZ 2025) | T20I | Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui | Mar 23, 2025 | – | New Zealand won by 115 runs | High total | Collapse | Duffy 4 wkts | NZ dominance |
| 5th T20I (Pak in NZ 2025) | T20I | Wellington | Mar 26, 2025 | – | New Zealand won by 8 wkts (60b rem) | 131/2 (10/20 ov, T:129) | 128/9 | Neesham MoM | Series clinched 4-1 |
| 1st Match Group A (Champions Trophy 2025) | ODI | National Stadium, Karachi | Feb 19, 2025 | – | New Zealand won by 60 runs | 320/5 (50 ov) (Young ton) | 260 (47.2 ov) | Young/Latham tons | High-scoring opener |
| 2nd ODI (Pak in NZ 2025) | ODI | Seddon Park, Hamilton | Apr 2, 2025 | – | New Zealand won by 84 runs | 292/8 | 208 (41.2 ov) | Bracewell all-round | Sweep continues |
| 3rd ODI (Pak in NZ 2025) | ODI | Bay Oval | Apr 4-5, 2025 | – | New Zealand won by 43 runs | 264/8 (42 ov reduced?) | 221 (40 ov) | Bracewell MoM | Whitewash 3-0 |
Final Verdict: A Rivalry That Endures and Evolves
In the end, Pakistan vs New Zealand remains a rivalry built on mutual respect and relentless competition. From dusty Karachi pitches to bio-secure bubbles, it has produced legends, upsets, and unforgettable moments. As both teams evolve into 2026 and beyond, this timeless contest promises more fireworks, ensuring fans stay hooked for generations to come.
Frequently Asked Questions about Pakistan vs New Zealand Cricket Rivalry
When was the first match between Pakistan and New Zealand?
The inaugural Test took place in October 1955 at Karachi’s National Stadium. Pakistan won by an innings and 1 run, marking the start of a historic rivalry.
Which team has the most Test wins in the head-to-head record?
Pakistan leads in Tests with a strong home record, including famous 3-0 and 2-0 whitewashes in the 1990s and 1970s. New Zealand has dominated recent away series.
What is the most famous match in this rivalry?
The 1992 World Cup semi-final at Eden Park stands out—Inzamam-ul-Haq’s explosive 60 off 37 balls powered Pakistan’s miraculous chase of 263, sending them to the final (which they won).
How has the rivalry changed in the T20 era?
T20 clashes are explosive and high-scoring. Babar Azam’s centuries, Shaheen Afridi’s pace barrages, and New Zealand’s clinical chases (like 2025 series) have added modern intensity and fan frenzy.
Why were many matches played in the UAE in the 2010s?
Security concerns forced Pakistan to play “home” series in the UAE from 2010–2018. Neutral venues like Dubai and Abu Dhabi hosted intense battles, with New Zealand often gaining the upper hand.