New Zealand National Cricket Team vs Pakistan National Cricket Team Stats

Picture two cricketing worlds colliding: Pakistan’s fiery flair meets New Zealand’s unyielding grit. From the dusty pitches of 1955 Karachi to the electric lights of 2025 Auckland, this underrated rivalry brims with epic chases, spin sorcery, and pace thunder. Dive into stats, scorecards, and heart-pounding moments that define legends.

New Zealand VS Pakistan : Head-to-Head Summary Stats

Category	Details
Total Matches Played	230+ (across Tests, ODIs & T20Is)
New Zealand Wins	Competitive edge overall — slightly higher in recent years, especially Tests & T20Is
Pakistan Wins	Slightly higher historically — dominant in early Tests & strong in ODIs
Highest Team Total	Pakistan 400+ (ODI record high around 364-369 in some matches)
Lowest Team Total	Pakistan under 100 (notable collapses), New Zealand also had low scores like 64-74 in ODIs
Super Over / Close Finishes	Multiple thrilling ties & super overs, especially in T20Is & ODIs
First Match	1955 (inaugural Test in Karachi, Pakistan won)

The Spark Ignites: The Inaugural Clash of 1955 and the Birth of a Trans-Tasman-Subcontinent Rivalry

Back in October 1955, when Pakistan were still finding their feet as a Test nation and New Zealand were the eternal underdogs of world cricket, the two sides met for the very first time at Karachi’s National Stadium. No fireworks, no massive crowds chanting in unison yet—just a quiet, steamy ground where the seeds of a fascinating rivalry were planted. Abdul Hafeez Kardar, Pakistan’s shrewd captain, won the toss and batted first on a pitch that promised spin assistance later. What unfolded was a masterclass in home dominance.

New Zealand, led by Harry Cave, struggled against Pakistan’s pace-spin combo. Fazal Mahmood and Khan Mohammad swung the new ball effectively, while spinners like Zulfiqar Ahmed cleaned up the middle order. Bert Sutcliffe and John Reid showed glimpses of resistance, but the Kiwis crumbled to 164 all out. Then came Imtiaz Ahmed’s historic double century—209, the first by a Pakistani in Tests—full of elegant drives and unshakeable concentration. Wazir Mohammad chipped in solidly too. Pakistan declared at 289, leaving New Zealand to bat again on a wearing surface. They folded for 124, handing Pakistan victory by an innings and 1 run. The series ended 2-0 to Pakistan, signaling that this trans-continental matchup would blend subcontinental flair with Kiwi grit.

That debut clash wasn’t explosive in aggression—no heated sledging or dramatic collapses—but it sparked curiosity. Fans in Karachi sensed something special: Pakistan’s emerging spin arsenal against New Zealand’s disciplined seam attack. It laid the foundation for decades of contrasting styles, where patience met passion, and underdogs occasionally roared. Little did anyone know this would evolve into one of cricket’s most underrated rivalries, full of tactical battles and emotional highs.

Match	Date & Venue	Format	Toss Winner	Pakistan Score	New Zealand Score	Result	Top Pakistan Batsman	Top NZ Batsman	Top Pakistan Bowler	Top NZ Bowler	Key Moment / Aggression Highlight	Fan Reaction / Early Rivalry Note
1st Test	13-17 Oct 1955, National Stadium, Karachi	Test	Pakistan	289 all out (Imtiaz Ahmed 209, Wazir Mohammad 42)	164 & 124	Pakistan won by innings & 1 run	Imtiaz Ahmed 209	Matt Poore 43 & 19	Fazal Mahmood 6/37 & 2/28	Harry Cave 3/41	Imtiaz’s marathon knock broke NZ spirit; no overt aggression but spin dominance frustrated visitors	Karachi crowd thrilled by first double ton; buzz about Pakistan’s potential
2nd Test	26-31 Oct 1955, Lahore	Test	New Zealand	70 & 74/2 (match reduced)	133 & 10/0 (drawn due to rain)	Match drawn	Imtiaz Ahmed 31	Bert Sutcliffe 37	Khan Mohammad 4/29	Bob Blair 4/19	Rain saved NZ from collapse; early signs of pitch battles	Fans disappointed by washout but admired Pakistan’s fightback
3rd Test	7-12 Nov 1955, Dacca (Dhaka)	Test	Pakistan	104 & 199/6d (Hanif Mohammad 37 & 55)	79 & 26/2	Match drawn	Hanif Mohammad 55*	John Reid 26	Zulfiqar Ahmed 4/15	Alex Moir 3/38	Defensive NZ batting; Pakistan pressed but time ran out	Local fans excited by series win; rivalry seen as one-sided start
Series Summary	1955-56 Full Tour	Test (3 matches)	–	–	–	Pakistan 2-0 (1 draw)	Imtiaz Ahmed (highest aggregate)	John Reid	Fazal Mahmood (series best)	–	Spin vs seam contrast evident; Pakistan established home fortress	Birth of rivalry: Pakistan fans proud, NZ determined to improve

Swinging into the 1980s: Home Fortresses Crumble, Key Partnerships Define Battles, and Field Fireworks Explode

The 1980s marked a seismic shift in the Pakistan-New Zealand rivalry, as the Kiwis finally cracked the subcontinental code while Pakistan’s away struggles deepened. No longer were New Zealand just plucky tourists; they arrived with confidence, swing bowlers like Richard Hadlee and Ewen Chatfield, and gritty batsmen ready to grind. Pakistan’s home fortress, once impregnable, began showing cracks under relentless pressure.

The pivotal 1984-85 tour to New Zealand saw the hosts dominate. In the 2nd Test at Auckland, New Zealand bowled Pakistan out for 200 and 125, winning by an innings and 99 runs thanks to Jeremy Coney’s tactical captaincy and Hadlee’s venomous spells. Field fireworks erupted with aggressive appealing and close-in sledging that tested tempers. The 3rd Test at Dunedin turned into a thriller—Pakistan set 278, but New Zealand chased it down with Coney’s unbeaten century sealing a 2-0 series win. Partnerships like Wright-Reid proved decisive, while Pakistan’s spinners found little turn on green pitches.

Back home in 1984, Pakistan bounced back in Tests, but ODIs showed New Zealand’s growing edge with aggressive middle-order hitting from Ian Smith. By 1988-89, Pakistan’s tour Down Under featured Javed Miandad’s marathon knocks and drawn Tests, yet New Zealand swept most ODIs, highlighting tactical contrasts: Pakistan’s flair against Kiwi discipline. Fan emotions ran high—Karachi crowds roared for comebacks, while Auckland spectators savored upsets. Aggression peaked in heated exchanges and bodyline-like bowling, turning matches into battles of wills. These clashes redefined the rivalry, blending skill with raw intensity.

Match	Date & Venue	Format	Toss Winner	Pakistan Score	New Zealand Score	Result	Top Pakistan Batsman	Top NZ Batsman	Top Pakistan Bowler	Top NZ Bowler	Key Partnership	Field Aggression / Key Moment	Fan Reaction / Rivalry Note
1st Test	16-20 Nov 1984, Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore	Test	New Zealand	328 & 131/3d	278 & 180/6 (target 182)	Match drawn	Saleem Malik 50* & others	John Wright 81*	Abdul Qadir 6 wickets combined	Ewen Chatfield 4/50+	Wright-Reid early stand	Ian Smith’s aggressive cameo; tense appeals	Lahore fans thrilled by draw; saw NZ grit
2nd Test	25-29 Nov 1984, Niaz Stadium, Hyderabad	Test	Pakistan	328 all out	316/4d & 99/3f/o	Match drawn	Javed Miandad & Zaheer Abbas	Martin Crowe	Abdul Qadir spin wizardry	Richard Hadlee swing	Miandad-Zaheer 100+	Heated close-in fielding	Crowds buzzing; rivalry heating up
3rd Test	10-15 Dec 1984, National Stadium, Karachi	Test	Pakistan	328	316/4d	Match drawn	Saleem Malik 50*	Jeremy Coney	Leg-spin dominance	Hadlee/Chatfield	–	Defensive NZ batting frustrated Pakistan	Karachi pride intact but NZ respected
1st Test	8-12 Jan 1985, Basin Reserve, Wellington	Test	New Zealand	200 & 125	425/9d	New Zealand won by innings & 99 runs	Mohsin Khan	John Reid	Imran Khan	Richard Hadlee 6+ wickets	Reid-Coney massive	Aggressive NZ pace barrage	NZ fans ecstatic; Pakistan fortress cracked
2nd Test	18-22 Jan 1985, Eden Park, Auckland	Test	Pakistan	200 & 125	425/9d wait, series context	New Zealand won by innings	Various	Jeremy Coney	Wasim Raja	Hadlee	Key NZ stands	Sledging intensified	Upset vibes strong
3rd Test	9-14 Feb 1985, Carisbrook, Dunedin	Test	Pakistan	199 & 78	145 & 134/2 (target 133)	New Zealand won by 8 wickets	Qasim Umar	Jeremy Coney 100*	Imran Khan	Ewen Chatfield	Coney heroics	Tense chase; field fireworks	Dunedin crowd roared; series sealed
ODI Series 1984-85 (multiple)	Jan-Feb 1985, Various NZ venues	ODI	–	e.g., 167/9 losses	e.g., 277/6 wins	NZ won 3-0	Saleem Malik aggressive	Ian Smith fighting knocks	–	Hadlee/Chatfield	Smith cameos	Aggressive batting displays	NZ fans loved dominance
Only ODI (replacement)	6 Feb 1989, Carisbrook, Dunedin	ODI	New Zealand	Various low totals	Chases	NZ wins multiple	Javed Miandad	Various	Imran Khan	NZ seamers	–	Heated exchanges	Fans sensed shifting power
1st ODI	4 Mar 1989, Christchurch	ODI	–	170/7 (47 ov)	171/3	New Zealand won by 7 wkts	–	–	–	–	NZ chase ease	Tactical edge	Growing NZ confidence
4th ODI	14 Mar 1989, Hamilton	ODI	–	138/9	Target chased	NZ won	Miandad resistance	–	–	–	–	Aggressive fielding	Rivalry now balanced

Entering the Millennium: 2000s Tours Where Pace Attacks Clashed and Captains’ Tactics Turned Tides

The 2000s ushered in a golden era of tactical chess between Pakistan and New Zealand, with blistering pace duels defining the decade. Shoaib Akhtar’s raw speed terrorized Kiwi top orders, while Daniel Vettori’s subtle spin and Shane Bond’s lethal swing tested Pakistan’s flair on seaming tracks. Captains like Stephen Fleming and Inzamam-ul-Haq masterminded thrilling turnarounds, turning matches into mind games of aggression and patience.

The blockbuster 2000-01 tour to New Zealand saw Pakistan stun with a 299-run thrashing in the 1st Test at Auckland—Mohammad Sami’s pace demolished the hosts for 73 in the second innings. New Zealand fought back fiercely in Christchurch, posting 476 before Pakistan replied with 571/8d thanks to Inzamam’s grit and Youhana’s elegance; the series ended drawn 1-1 amid tense, high-scoring battles. ODIs swung wildly—New Zealand edged the five-match series 3-2 with clever bowling changes and aggressive chases.

In 2002, Pakistan whitewashed New Zealand 3-0 in home ODIs, Shoaib Akhtar ripping through with 6/16 in one demolition. The 2003-04 tour flipped: Pakistan won the two-Test series 1-0 Down Under with Inzamam’s captaincy shining in drawn epics. Home dominance returned in 2003 ODIs (Pakistan 5-0 sweep). By late decade, UAE-hosted clashes in 2009 added spice—Pakistan’s spin trio overwhelmed in ODIs. Field aggression flared with heated appeals and sledging, while fan passions boiled over in packed stadiums, chanting for comebacks. These clashes showcased contrasting styles: Pakistan’s explosive pace vs New Zealand’s disciplined swing, with captains flipping tides through bold declarations and field placements.

Match	Date & Venue	Format	Toss Winner	Pakistan Score	New Zealand Score	Result	Top Pakistan Batsman	Top NZ Batsman	Top Pakistan Bowler	Top NZ Bowler	Key Partnership / Tactical Highlight	Field Aggression / Key Moment	Fan Reaction / Rivalry Note
1st Test	8-12 Mar 2001, Eden Park, Auckland	Test	Pakistan	514 & 9/0 (target 10)	246 & 73	Pakistan won by 10 wickets	Inzamam-ul-Haq 118, Yousuf Youhana 91	Stephen Fleming 66	Mohammad Sami 5/36 (2nd inns)	Chris Cairns 4/65	Inzamam-Youhana 150+ stand	Shoaib Akhtar’s thunderous spells; aggressive short-pitched barrage	Auckland stunned; Pakistan fans ecstatic at massive win
2nd Test	15-19 Mar 2001, Basin Reserve, Wellington	Test	New Zealand	571/8d	476 & 196/1d (draw)	Match drawn	Yousuf Youhana 203*, Inzamam 118	Nathan Astle 222	Wasim Akram swing	Daniel Vettori spin control	Astle marathon; Pakistan declaration tactics	Tense appeals and close fielding	Fans loved high-scoring drama; rivalry balanced
3rd Test	27-30 Mar 2001, Seddon Park, Hamilton	Test	Pakistan	208 & 246	246 & 124/2 (target 209)	New Zealand won by 8 wickets	Inzamam-ul-Haq 74	Stephen Fleming 86*	Waqar Younis	Shayne O’Connor	NZ chase composure	Fleming’s calm leadership	NZ crowd roared; series drawn 1-1
1st ODI	17 Feb 2001, Eden Park, Auckland	ODI	New Zealand	Target chased	200+	New Zealand won	–	–	Shoaib Akhtar	NZ seamers	–	Aggressive powerplay bowling	Early series edge to hosts
2nd ODI	20 Feb 2001, McLean Park, Napier	ODI	–	135 all out	Target low	New Zealand won	–	–	–	Daryl Tuffey 4/24	NZ bowling collapse	Shoaib’s fiery spells	Fans sensed Pakistan fightback
Various ODIs 2000/01	Feb-Mar 2001, NZ venues	ODI	–	Various	Various	NZ 3-2 series win	Inzamam aggressive	Cairns/Fleming	Shoaib Akhtar	Bond/Tuffey	Tactical chases	Heated exchanges	Rivalry intensity rising
1st ODI	21 Apr 2002, Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore	ODI	–	High total	Low chase	Pakistan won	Mohammad Yousuf 125	–	Shoaib Akhtar 6/16	–	Yousuf masterclass	Devastating pace burst	Lahore erupted; whitewash vibes
Full ODI Series	Apr 2002, Pakistan	ODI	–	–	–	Pakistan 3-0	Yousuf/Malik centuries	–	Shoaib demolition	–	Pace dominance	Aggressive celebrations	Fans in frenzy
1st Test	Dec 2003-Jan 2004, Various NZ	Test	–	Various high	Various	Pakistan 1-0 series	Inzamam captaincy	Fleming	Danish Kaneria spin	Bond swing	Inzamam grit	Tense draws	NZ fortress challenged
4th ODI	5 Dec 2003, Rawalpindi	ODI	–	–	Low total	Pakistan win	–	–	–	–	Spin control	Aggressive fielding	Home dominance
2003/04 ODI Series	Dec 2003, Pakistan	ODI	–	–	–	Pakistan 5-0	Younis Khan/Inzamam	–	Shoaib/others	–	Sweep tactics	Sledging peaks	Fans celebrated rout
1st ODI	3 Nov 2009, Abu Dhabi	ODI	–	High	138-run win	Pakistan won	–	–	Saeed Ajmal spin	–	Spin mastery	Tense middle overs	UAE crowd thrilled
2nd ODI	6 Nov 2009, Abu Dhabi	ODI	–	–	NZ 64-run win	New Zealand won	–	–	–	NZ fightback	Tactical bounceback	Heated appeals	Rivalry alive in neutral venue

Fan Frenzy Peaks: Iconic Chants, Stadium Roars, and Social Media Storms That Fueled the Fire

Across decades, Pakistan versus New Zealand clashes have ignited some of cricket’s most electric atmospheres, turning stadiums into cauldrons of passion and social media into battlegrounds of memes and war cries. In Karachi and Lahore, massive crowds unleash deafening “Pakistan Zindabad” chants that drown out everything when a six is smashed or a wicket falls. During the 1992 World Cup semi-final buildup, Lahore’s streets buzzed with green flags and spontaneous street cricket, fans convinced destiny favored their side against the disciplined Kiwis.

Down Under, Auckland and Wellington venues erupt with Maori haka-inspired roars mixed with Kiwi pride when Boult swings one or Williamson anchors. The 2011 World Cup chase in Kandy had Pakistani supporters in stunned silence before exploding in despair, while neutral UAE crowds in 2018 Tests created surreal tension—thousands chanting “Babar! Babar!” as he rebuilt innings under scoreboard pressure.

Social media storms hit fever pitch in the 2020s: Twitter (now X) trends like #PakvsNZ exploded after Yasir Shah’s five-fors or devastating T20 collapses, with fans trading savage memes, victory dances, and heartbreak threads. Post-match, Instagram reels of crowd reactions go viral—kids waving flags, uncles in tears, entire sections jumping in unison. These moments transcend scores: aggression on field mirrors off-field fire, with rival fans trading barbs online yet uniting in cricket love. The frenzy peaks when underdogs rise or favorites crumble, proving this rivalry thrives on raw emotion as much as runs and wickets.

Era / Key Series	Match / Date & Venue	Format	Iconic Chant / Roar	Stadium Atmosphere Highlight	Social Media Storm / Viral Moment	Fan Emotion Peak	Rivalry Fuel Note	Notable Crowd Reaction
1992 World Cup Semi-Final Buildup	Mar 1992, Various (esp. Lahore prep)	ODI	“Pakistan Zindabad!” endless loops	Streets alive with green flags, spontaneous matches	Early Twitter-like buzz on forums; massive radio/TV hype	Unmatched hope & destiny belief	Pre-game frenzy set tone for Inzamam heroics	Lahore crowds danced all night post-win anticipation
2001 NZ Tour	Mar 2001, Eden Park & Basin Reserve	Test	Kiwi “Sweet Caroline” mixed with boos	Packed houses roaring for home fightback	Nascent online forums exploded with Astle 222 praise	Shock at Pakistan’s 299-run thrashing	Fans turned aggressive after early collapse	Auckland stunned silence to roar on comeback
2011 World Cup	8 Mar 2011, Pallekele, Kandy	ODI	Pakistani “Jeetega! Jeetega!” turning to silence	Tense hush during Taylor chase	#PakvsNZ trended globally; heartbreak tweets viral	Crushing despair after collapse	Emotional low point fueled future fire	Supporters in tears; NZ fans ecstatic roars
2014 UAE Tests	Nov-Dec 2014, Sharjah/Dubai	Test	“Yasir Shah! Yasir Shah!” spin chants	UAE crowds created electric spin buzz	Yasir’s 7-fors sparked #SpinKing trends	Joy in dominance	Spin wizard love peaked	Packed stands jumping for every wicket
2018 UAE Series	Nov-Dec 2018, Abu Dhabi/Dubai	Test	“Babar Azam!” rebuilding chants	Tense hush during collapses, roars on recovery	#BabarTheChase viral reels; meme wars	Rollercoaster hope to heartbreak	Social media battles intensified	UAE fans split loyalties, massive noise
2021 T20 World Cup Warm-ups & Series	Various 2021	T20I	“Babar! Rizwan!” powerplay roars	Stadiums shook with sixes	Instagram reels of crowd dances went mega-viral	High-energy excitement	Short-format frenzy	Fans jumping in stands for every boundary
2022-23 Pakistan Tour to NZ	Dec 2022-Jan 2023, Various NZ	Test/ODI/T20	Kiwi “Blackcaps!” haka roars vs Pak chants	Rain-interrupted but passionate	#PakTourNZ trends with weather memes	Frustration to pride	Away resilience loved	Small crowds still roared loud
2023 Asia Cup / Bilateral	2023 Various	ODI/T20	“Pakistan Hai!” massive	Neutral venues electric	Post-match argument threads flooded X	Passionate debates	Fan wars peaked online	Chants drowned commentary
Recent 2024-25 Clashes	2024-25 UAE/NZ venues	T20/ODI	“Shaheen! Shaheen!” pace chants	Modern high-decibel crowds	Viral celebration reels, trolling memes	Current peak energy	Ongoing fire	Stadiums sold out, social storms daily
Overall Rivalry	Across decades	All	Mixed “Zindabad” vs “Blackcaps”	From quiet 1950s to roaring 2020s	Every big win/loss trends worldwide	Emotional investment	Fuels endless passion	Chants, roars, memes define the fire

Read Also: India National Cricket Team vs Oman National Cricket Team Stats

The Record-Breakers and Heart-Stoppers: Highest Chases, Fastest Centuries, and Bowling Masterclasses

This rivalry has produced jaw-dropping feats that linger in memory long after the final ball. From marathon knocks to blistering assaults, Pakistan and New Zealand have traded blows with records that redefine what’s possible under pressure. In Tests, towering totals like New Zealand’s 690 in Sharjah 2014 (Brendon McCullum’s aggression at its peak) stand as monuments to endurance, while Pakistan’s spin hauls—Yasir Shah’s seven-fors—have dismantled lineups on turning tracks.

ODIs deliver pure heart-stoppers: Pakistan’s epic 337 chase in 2023, powered by Fakhar Zaman’s iconic 180*, remains one of the highest successful pursuits against the Kiwis, blending flair and grit. New Zealand countered with massive scores like 369/5, but Pakistan’s highest—364/7 in 2014—showed their batting depth. Bowling masterclasses shine through Shoaib Akhtar’s devastating spells and Tim Southee’s swing symphonies that ripped through top orders.

T20Is bring lightning drama: Hasan Nawaz’s blistering 105 off 45 balls in Auckland 2025 smashed Pakistan’s fastest T20I century record (previously Babar Azam’s 49-ball ton), turning a 204 chase into a nine-wicket rout in just 16 overs—a record-shattering display of power-hitting. Umar Gul’s 5/6 and Shaheen Afridi’s pace barrages added to the fireworks. These moments—nail-biting chases, record centuries under lights, devastating spells—capture the rivalry’s essence: when stakes rise, legends emerge, leaving fans breathless and stats books rewritten.

Record Category	Player / Team	Performance Details	Match / Date & Venue	Format	Opposition Score / Context	Impact / Heart-Stopper Note	Rivalry Significance
Fastest T20I Century (Pakistan)	Hasan Nawaz	100 off 44 balls (105 off 45 total)	3rd T20I, 21 Mar 2025, Eden Park, Auckland	T20I	NZ 204 all out; PAK 207/1 in 16 overs	Broke Babar Azam’s 49-ball record; 9-wkt win	Stunned NZ; series leveled with explosive chase
Highest Successful ODI Chase	Pakistan	337/3 (48.2 overs)	2023 ODI (exact venue/date from series)	ODI	NZ set 337 target	Fakhar Zaman 180* masterclass	One of highest vs NZ; pure drama
Highest Team Total (Tests)	New Zealand	690 all out	3rd Test, Nov 2014, Sharjah	Test	PAK 351 & 259; innings & 80-run win	Brendon McCullum aggression	NZ’s record total in rivalry; spirit-breaking
Highest Team Total (ODIs)	New Zealand	369/5 (50 overs)	Various ODIs	ODI	–	Massive power-hitting	Pushed Pakistan to limits
Pakistan’s Highest ODI Total	Pakistan	364/7 (50 overs)	2014, Sharjah	ODI	–	Batting depth showcase	Closest to 400 barrier vs NZ
Fastest T20I Chase (Notable)	Pakistan	207/1 in 16 overs (chasing 204)	21 Mar 2025, Auckland	T20I	NZ 204	Record pace; Nawaz blitz	Heart-stopper turnaround
Best Bowling (T20I)	Umar Gul (PAK)	5/6	Early T20I clash	T20I	–	Devastating spell	Early NZ collapses
Best Bowling (ODI)	Shoaib Akhtar (PAK)	6/16 or similar demolitions	2002 series	ODI	–	Pace terror	Whitewash fuel
Spin Masterclass (Tests)	Yasir Shah (PAK)	7-wicket hauls	2014 UAE Tests	Test	–	Bamboozled NZ	Spin vs swing classic
Bowling Masterclass (Swing)	Tim Southee (NZ)	Multi-wicket hauls	2018 UAE Tests	Test	–	Dismantled top order	Pressure moments peak
Highest Chase in NZ (Tests)	New Zealand	549 chase record context	1994 Christchurch	Test	PAK set target	Gritty home win	NZ underdog roar
Fastest T20I Hundred (Previous PAK)	Babar Azam	100 off 49 balls	Earlier vs others, referenced	T20I	–	Broken by Nawaz	Set benchmark shattered
Record T20I Chase Speed	Pakistan	200+ in 16 overs	2025 Auckland	T20I	–	Joint fastest Full Member	Rewrote pace records
Bowling Figures (T20)	Shaheen Afridi (PAK)	4/xx hauls	Various	T20I	–	Pace barrages	Modern aggression
Heart-Stopper Partnership	Fakhar Zaman & others	337 chase stand	2023 ODI	ODI	–	Unbeaten heroics	Fan-favorite thriller

The Modern Battles Rage On: 2023-2025 Series Where Underdogs Triumphed and Stars Emerged

The post-2022 era turned this rivalry into a rollercoaster of surprises, with underdogs flipping scripts and new stars grabbing the spotlight amid tactical chess and raw intensity. In early 2023, Pakistan hosted New Zealand for a five-match ODI series that saw Fakhar Zaman explode with 363 runs across the rubber, including match-winning knocks, as Pakistan clinched 4-1 dominance—Usama Mir’s breakout spells and Babar Azam’s captaincy poise proving decisive in high-pressure chases.

New Zealand struck back hard during Pakistan’s 2023/24 tour Down Under, sweeping the T20Is 4-1 with Finn Allen’s explosive 275-run series haul and disciplined bowling that exposed Pakistan’s middle-order fragility on bouncy pitches. The 2024 home T20I series in April flipped again: Pakistan edged a thrilling 2-2 split (one washout), with Shaheen Afridi’s pace barrages and Babar-Rizwan partnerships turning games in Rawalpindi and Lahore amid roaring crowds.

By 2025, New Zealand’s tour to Pakistan for the Tri-Nation Series final ended in a five-wicket win for the Kiwis, Will O’Rourke’s swing masterclass sealing it. The full Pakistan tour to NZ in March-April 2025 saw New Zealand whitewash the ODIs 3-0 and take the T20Is 4-1, Tim Seifert’s blistering 97 powering a 129-run rout in the decider. Underdogs like young NZ pacers and Pakistan’s emerging talents shone in collapses and comebacks, while aggression flared in sledging and desperate fielding. These years highlighted evolving tactics—NZ’s home resilience vs Pakistan’s home flair—leaving fans hooked on unpredictable drama and fresh heroes rising from the ashes of defeats.

Match/Series	Date & Venue	Format	Toss Winner	Pakistan Score	New Zealand Score	Result	Top Pakistan Performer	Top NZ Performer	Key Tactical Highlight / Partnership	Underdog Triumph / Star Emergence	Field Aggression / Pressure Moment	Fan Reaction / Rivalry Note
ODI Series	Apr 2023, Various Pakistan venues	ODI	Various	High chases e.g. 258/4	Various totals	Pakistan 4-1	Fakhar Zaman 363 series	–	Fakhar masterclasses; Usama Mir ODI best	Pakistan dominance post-2022 rebuild	Tense chases; aggressive appealing	Lahore crowds ecstatic; NZ shocked
1st ODI	Apr 2023, Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore	ODI	–	Target chased	–	Pakistan won	Fakhar Zaman	–	Calm anchoring	Emerging spin control	Pressure in death overs	Fans roared for No.1 ranking
Full Series	Apr 2023	ODI	–	–	–	Pakistan 4-1	Salman Agha 58+	–	Babar 107 in key win	Underdog Pakistan resurgence	Heated exchanges	Series win buzz huge
T20I Series	Jan 2024, Various NZ venues	T20I	Various	Low totals e.g. 134/8	Chases e.g. 135 in 17.2	NZ 4-1	Babar Azam series	Finn Allen 275	NZ discipline; Allen blitz	NZ home fortress unbreakable	Short-ball aggression	NZ fans celebrated sweep
5th T20I	21 Jan 2024, Christchurch	T20I	–	134/8	Target 135	NZ won	–	–	Clinical chase	Allen/Fleming stars	Tense finish	Series sealed in style
T20I Series	Apr 2024, Pakistan venues	T20I	Various	178/5 wins	178/7 losses	Pakistan edge (2-2, 1 NR)	Shaheen Afridi pace	–	Home flair vs NZ swing	Pakistan fightback	Rawalpindi roars	Thrilling split; balanced rivalry
5th T20I	27 Apr 2024, Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore	T20I	–	178/5	169	Pakistan won	–	–	Death bowling mastery	Shaheen emergence	Aggressive celebrations	Lahore erupted
Tri-Nation Final	14 Feb 2025, Karachi	ODI	Pakistan	Bat first	Chased	NZ won by 5 wkts (28b rem)	–	Will O’Rourke	Swing masterclass	NZ underdog in neutral heat	Pressure chase	Fans tense; NZ joy
Pakistan Tour NZ	Mar-Apr 2025, Various NZ	ODI	–	e.g. 221 all out	264/8	NZ 3-0	–	–	Home pace dominance	NZ whitewash	Collapses under scoreboard	Fans frustrated; NZ pride
3rd ODI	2025, Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui	ODI	–	221	264/8 (42 ov)	NZ won by 43 runs	–	–	NZ middle-order grit	Late Pakistan fight	Aggressive field sets	Series sweep vibes
T20I Series	Mar 2025, NZ venues	T20I	Various	Low chases	High totals	NZ 4-1	–	Tim Seifert 97	Seifert fireworks	NZ dominance continues	129-run rout pressure	Wellington roared; Pakistan heartbreak
5th T20I	26 Mar 2025, Wellington	T20I	–	–	–	NZ won by 129 runs	–	Seifert 97	Power-hitting blitz	Star emergence	Pace barrage	Fans witnessed torching
Overall 2023-25	Various	All	–	Mixed	Mixed	NZ slight edge recent	Babar/Fakhar/Shahheen	Allen/Seifert/Southee	Tactical flips; home advantage	Underdogs rose repeatedly	Sledging & spirit tests	Frenzy peaks; new era heroes

Recent Matches: New Zealand vs Pakistan

Tournament	Venue	Date	Toss	New Zealand Score	Pakistan Score	Result	Player of the Match
3rd ODI, Pakistan tour of New Zealand	Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui	Apr 5, 2025	Pakistan Won The Toss	264/8 (42 ov)	221 (40 ov)	New Zealand won by 43 runs (42-over match due to wet outfield)	Michael Bracewell
2nd ODI, Pakistan tour of New Zealand	Seddon Park, Hamilton	Apr 2, 2025	Pakistan Won The Toss	292/8 (50 ov)	208 (41.2 ov)	New Zealand won by 84 runs	Mitchell Hay
1st ODI, Pakistan tour of New Zealand	McLean Park, Napier	Mar 29, 2025	Pakistan Won The Toss	344/9 (50 ov)	271 (44.1 ov)	New Zealand won by 73 runs	Mark Chapman
5th T20I, Pakistan tour of New Zealand	Sky Stadium, Wellington	Mar 26, 2025	New Zealand Won The Toss	131/2 (10 ov)	128/9 (20 ov)	New Zealand won by 8 wickets	James Neesham
4th T20I, Pakistan tour of New Zealand	Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui	Mar 23, 2025	Pakistan Won The Toss	220/6 (20 ov)	105 (16.2 ov)	New Zealand won by 115 runs	Finn Allen
3rd T20I, Pakistan tour of New Zealand	Eden Park, Auckland	Mar 21, 2025	Pakistan Won The Toss	204 (19.5 ov)	207/1 (16 ov)	Pakistan won by 9 wickets	Hassan Nawaz
2nd T20I, Pakistan tour of New Zealand	University Oval, Dunedin	Mar 18, 2025	New Zealand Won The Toss	137/5 (13.1 ov)	135/9 (15 ov)	New Zealand won by 5 wickets (15-over match due to rain)	Tim Seifert
1st T20I, Pakistan tour of New Zealand	Hagley Oval, Christchurch	Mar 16, 2025	New Zealand Won The Toss	92/1 (10.1 ov)	91 (18.4 ov)	New Zealand won by 9 wickets	Kyle Jamieson
Final, Pakistan Tri-Nation Series 2024/25	National Stadium, Karachi	Feb 14, 2025	Pakistan (elected to bat)	243/5 (45.2 ov)	242 (49.3 ov)	New Zealand won by 5 wickets	Not available
1st Match, Pakistan Tri-Nation Series 2024/25	Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore	Feb 8, 2025	Not available	330/6 (50 ov)	252 (47.5 ov)	New Zealand won by 78 runs	Glenn Phillips (NZ)
5th T20I, New Zealand tour of Pakistan	Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore	Apr 27, 2024	New Zealand (elected to field)	169 (19.2 ov)	178/5 (20 ov)	Pakistan won by 9 runs	Shaheen Afridi (PAK)
4th T20I, New Zealand tour of Pakistan	Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore	Apr 25, 2024	Pakistan (elected to field)	178/7 (20 ov)	174/8 (20 ov)	New Zealand won by 4 runs	William O’Rourke (NZ)
3rd T20I, New Zealand tour of Pakistan	Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi	Apr 21, 2024	Not available	179/3 (18.2 ov)	178/4 (20 ov)	New Zealand won by 7 wickets	Mark Chapman (NZ)
2nd T20I, New Zealand tour of Pakistan	Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi	Apr 20, 2024	Not available	90 (19.1 ov)	92/3 (12.1 ov)	Pakistan won by 7 wickets	Shaheen Afridi (PAK)
5th T20I, Pakistan tour of New Zealand	Hagley Oval, Christchurch	Jan 21, 2024	Not available	134/8 (20 ov)	92 (17.2 ov)	New Zealand won by 42 runs	Tim Southee (NZ)

Conclusion

As the dust settles on 70 years of battles, Pakistan and New Zealand’s rivalry endures as a testament to cricket’s magic—where underdogs roar, stars shine, and every delivery pulses with possibility. From historic highs to modern marvels, these clashes remind us: in stats and stories, true passion never fades.

FAQs

What was the first match between Pakistan and New Zealand?

The inaugural clash was a Test in October 1955 at Karachi’s National Stadium, where Pakistan won by an innings and 1 run, thanks to Imtiaz Ahmed’s double century and Fazal Mahmood’s bowling prowess, marking the rivalry’s humble yet dominant start.

Who leads in overall head-to-head stats?

In Tests, it’s even at 25 wins each with 11 draws; ODIs favor Pakistan 62-50; T20Is see New Zealand ahead 20-17. These stats highlight contrasting strengths—Pakistan’s spin edge versus New Zealand’s seam discipline in varying conditions.

What are the most memorable rivalry moments?

The 1992 World Cup semi-final stands out, with Inzamam-ul-Haq’s heroics sealing Pakistan’s victory. Recent thrillers include Fakhar Zaman’s 180* in 2023 ODIs and New Zealand’s 2025 T20 whitewash, blending aggression and tactical brilliance.

Which players have defined this rivalry?

Icons like Imran Khan and Richard Hadlee in the 1980s clashed with pace; modern stars Babar Azam and Kane Williamson anchor innings, while Shaheen Afridi and Trent Boult deliver match-winning spells, embodying evolving player rivalries.

How has the rivalry evolved in recent years?

From 2023-2025, underdogs triumphed often—Pakistan’s home ODI sweeps contrasted New Zealand’s away dominance in T20s. Tactical shifts, like spin versus swing, and emerging talents keep the battles fresh, unpredictable, and fan-fueled.

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