The rivalry between New Zealand national cricket team and Pakistan national cricket team is one of the most unpredictable and exciting contests in international cricket. Both teams are known for their unique styles, with New Zealand focusing on discipline and teamwork, while Pakistan brings flair and unpredictability. Their matches have produced thrilling moments and closely fought battles over the years.
Recent Matches
Tournament
Venue
Date
Toss
New Zealand Score
Pakistan Score
Result
Series
Player of the Match
T20 World Cup
Colombo
Feb 21, 2026
Pakistan (bat)
n/a
0/0 (0)
No result
T20 World Cup
n/a
Bilateral ODI
Mt Maunganui
Apr 5, 2025
Pakistan (field)
264/8 (42)
221 (40)
NZ won by 43 runs
Bilateral ODI
Michael Bracewell (NZ)
Bilateral ODI
Hamilton
Apr 2, 2025
Pakistan (field)
292/8 (50)
208 (41.2)
NZ won by 84 runs
Bilateral ODI
Mitchell Hay (NZ)
Bilateral ODI
Napier
Mar 29, 2025
Pakistan (field)
344/9 (50)
271 (44.1)
NZ won by 73 runs
Bilateral ODI
Mark Chapman (NZ)
Bilateral T20I
Wellington
Mar 26, 2025
New Zealand (field)
131/2 (10)
128/9 (20)
NZ won by 8 wickets
Bilateral T20I
James Neesham (NZ)
Bilateral T20I
Mt Maunganui
Mar 23, 2025
Pakistan (field)
220/6 (20)
105 (16.2)
NZ won by 115 runs
Bilateral T20I
Finn Allen (NZ)
Bilateral T20I
Auckland
Mar 21, 2025
Pakistan (field)
204 (19.5)
207/1 (16)
Pakistan won by 9 wickets
Bilateral T20I
Hassan Nawaz (PAK)
Format-wise Head-to-Head Stats
Format
Matches
New Zealand Won
Pakistan Won
Tied/Draw
No Result
Test
62
14
25
23
0
ODI
122
57
61
1
3
T20I
50
23
24
0
3
Key Performance Statistics: Player Leaders
Stat Category
New Zealand Leader
Pakistan Leader
Most Runs (ODI)
Kane Williamson (1,103)
Inzamam-ul-Haq (1,283)
Most Wickets (ODI)
Danny Morrison (39)
Waqar Younis (79)
Highest Individual Score (ODI)
Ross Taylor (131*)
Fakhar Zaman (180*)
Best Bowling Figures (ODI)
Trent Boult (5/17)
Shoaib Akhtar (6/16)
Most Runs (T20I)
Mark Chapman (772)
Babar Azam (881)
Most Wickets (T20I)
Tim Southee (38)
Shaheen Afridi (33)
Recent Match Result Breakdown (2025-2026)
Date
Format
Venue
Result
Feb 21, 2026
T20I
Colombo
No Result (Rain)
Apr 5, 2025
ODI
Mt Maunganui
New Zealand won by 43 runs
Apr 2, 2025
ODI
Hamilton
New Zealand won by 84 runs
Mar 29, 2025
ODI
Napier
New Zealand won by 73 runs
Mar 26, 2025
T20I
Wellington
New Zealand won by 8 wickets
Mar 23, 2025
T20I
Mt Maunganui
New Zealand won by 115 runs
Mar 21, 2025
T20I
Auckland
Pakistan won by 9 wickets
Early Encounters and Rivalry Foundation
The early encounters between New Zealand and Pakistan were competitive, with both teams striving to establish dominance. Pakistan often had the upper hand due to their strong bowling attack and talented players. New Zealand, however, relied on disciplined performances and teamwork to stay competitive. These initial matches helped build a balanced rivalry, with both teams learning from each other and improving over time. Pakistan’s aggressive approach contrasted with New Zealand’s structured gameplay, creating an engaging contest for fans.
Year
Venue
Score
Result
Highlight
1973
Christchurch
NZ 187 vs PAK 188
PAK won
First clash
1985
Lahore
PAK 250/7 vs NZ 210/10
PAK won
Strong bowling
1992
World Cup
NZ 166/10 vs PAK 167/9
PAK won
Semi final
1994
Auckland
NZ 240/6 vs PAK 235/10
NZ won
Close finish
Shift in Momentum and Competitive Balance
As both teams evolved, the rivalry became more balanced with frequent shifts in momentum. New Zealand developed a strong and consistent squad, while Pakistan continued to rely on their natural talent and match winning abilities. This phase saw both teams winning crucial matches across formats. Home advantage often played a significant role, with each team performing better in familiar conditions. The rivalry became more competitive, with closely contested games and unpredictable results.
Period
Dominant Team
Key Factor
Result Trend
Impact
2000
PAK
Bowling attack
PAK wins
Control
2005
NZ
Team balance
NZ wins
Stability
2015
NZ
Home strength
NZ wins
Dominance
2020
Even
Mixed results
Shared wins
Balance
High Pressure Matches and Memorable Moments
New Zealand vs Pakistan matches have often delivered high pressure situations and unforgettable moments, especially in ICC tournaments. Both teams have showcased their ability to perform under pressure, producing thrilling finishes and dramatic games. Pakistan’s unpredictability and New Zealand’s composure have created a unique dynamic in these encounters. Several matches have been decided in the final overs, keeping fans on the edge of their seats. These memorable moments have strengthened the rivalry and added excitement to international cricket.
Year
Match Type
Score
Result
Key Moment
1992
World Cup
NZ 166 vs PAK 167
PAK won
Semi final win
2011
World Cup
NZ 302/7 vs PAK 192
NZ won
Dominant win
2018
ODI
PAK 279/9 vs NZ 273/10
PAK won
Close game
2022
T20 WC
NZ 152/4 vs PAK 153/3
PAK won
Semi final
Key Player Contributions and Match Winners
Individual performances have played a crucial role in shaping the New Zealand vs Pakistan timeline. Both teams have produced match winners capable of changing the course of a game. New Zealand has relied on consistency and teamwork, while Pakistan has showcased brilliance through individual talent. Key innings, crucial wickets, and all round performances have often determined the outcome of matches. These contributions have added depth and excitement to the rivalry.
Player Type
New Zealand
Pakistan
Performance
Impact
Opener
Consistent
Aggressive
Fast runs
Strong start
Middle Order
Stable
Dynamic
Big scores
Momentum
Bowler
Balanced
Pace attack
Wickets
Pressure
All rounder
Key strength
Impactful
Dual role
Game changer
Head to Head Record and Statistical Insights
The head to head record between New Zealand and Pakistan reflects a closely contested rivalry, with both teams enjoying success at different times. Pakistan has historically held a slight edge, particularly in limited overs formats, while New Zealand has been strong in home conditions. These statistics highlight the balance and competitiveness of the rivalry.
Matches
NZ Wins
PAK Wins
No Result
Win % (PAK)
110
50
60
0
54%
Tests
12
25
0
67%
ODIs
35
45
0
56%
T20
3
5
0
62%
Future Outlook of the Rivalry
Looking ahead, the New Zealand vs Pakistan rivalry is expected to remain exciting and unpredictable. Both teams continue to develop strong squads with emerging players and experienced leaders. New Zealand will aim to maintain their consistency, while Pakistan will look to capitalize on their natural talent and aggressive gameplay. Future encounters are likely to feature close contests, high pressure situations, and standout performances, ensuring the rivalry continues to captivate cricket fans.
Factor
New Zealand
Pakistan
Prediction
Impact
Squad Strength
Balanced
Talented
Even
Close games
Batting
Consistent
Aggressive
Even
High scores
Bowling
Balanced
Strong pace
PAK edge
Wickets
Youth Talent
High
High
Even
Future
Conclusion
The New Zealand vs Pakistan timeline highlights a rivalry built on competition, unpredictability, and thrilling cricket. Both teams have delivered memorable performances and closely contested matches over the years. Pakistan’s flair and New Zealand’s discipline have created a balanced and engaging contest. As both teams continue to evolve, this rivalry will remain one of the most exciting in international cricket, offering fans high quality matches and unforgettable moments.