The rivalry between the Australian and New Zealand cricket teams is steeped in a rich history of intense battles and sportsmanship. The closeness in geography and culture has brewed a competitive spirit that transcends the game, making every encounter between these two cricketing powerhouses a much-anticipated event.
From high-stakes tournaments like the World Cup to thrilling Test series and exciting T20s, each format has its own tale of unforgettable matches and moments.
In this blog, we explore the evolution of the Australia vs. New Zealand cricket rivalry, shining a light on significant series, matches, and the players who have turned these games into classics.
A Brief History of Australia vs New Zealand Rivalry
The Trans-Tasman rivalry began in the early 20th century but gained prominence when New Zealand started playing regular Test cricket.
Over the years, the teams have competed across all formats, with Australia often having the upper hand. However, New Zealand has pulled off some memorable victories that have added an intriguing layer to their contests.
Prominent players like Sir Richard Hadlee, Martin Crowe, Ricky Ponting, and Steve Smith have been pivotal in shaping the dynamics of this rivalry with their remarkable performances.
Australia vs New Zealand Head-to-Head Statistics:
| Statistic | Test (1945–2024) | ODI (1974–2024) | T20I (2005–2024) |
| Span | 1945–2024 | 1974–2024 | 2005–2024 |
| Matches Played | 60 | 138 | 20 |
| Wins (Australia) | 33 | 92 | 13 |
| Wins (New Zealand) | 12 | 39 | 6 |
| Draws | 15 | 0 | 0 |
| Ties | 0 | 7 | 1 |
| No Result | 0 | 7 | 0 |
| Win Percentage (Australia) | 55.00% | 66.67% | 65.00% |
| Win Percentage (New Zealand) | 20.00% | 28.26% | 30.00% |
Australia has been dominant in Tests and ODIs, while New Zealand has found more success in the T20 format.
Timeline of Matches Between Australia vs New Zealand
Australia vs New Zealand Test Matches Timeline
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Test cricket showcases some of the best qualities of this rivalry. Here are a few key Test series:
| Series/Tournament | Winner | Margin |
| Australia in New Zealand Test Match, 1945/46 | Australia | 1-0 (1) |
| New Zealand in Australia Test Series, 1973/74 | Australia | 2-0 (3) |
| Australia in New Zealand Test Series, 1973/74 | Drawn | 1-1 (3) |
| Australia in New Zealand Test Series, 1976/77 | Australia | 1-0 (2) |
| New Zealand in Australia Test Series, 1980/81 | Australia | 2-0 (3) |
| Australia in New Zealand Test Series, 1981/82 | Drawn | 1-1 (3) |
| Trans-Tasman Trophy (NZ in AUS), 1985/86 | New Zealand | 2-1 (3) |
| Trans-Tasman Trophy (AUS in NZ), 1985/86 | New Zealand | 1-0 (3) |
| Trans-Tasman Trophy (NZ in AUS), 1987/88 | Australia | 1-0 (3) |
| Trans-Tasman Trophy (NZ in AUS), 1989/90 | Drawn | 0-0 (1) |
| Trans-Tasman Trophy (AUS in NZ), 1989/90 | New Zealand | 1-0 (1) |
| Trans-Tasman Trophy (AUS in NZ), 1992/93 | Drawn | 1-1 (3) |
| Trans-Tasman Trophy (NZ in AUS), 1993/94 | Australia | 2-0 (3) |
| Trans-Tasman Trophy (NZ in AUS), 1997/98 | Australia | 2-0 (3) |
| Trans-Tasman Trophy (AUS in NZ), 1999/00 | Australia | 3-0 (3) |
| Trans-Tasman Trophy (NZ in AUS), 2001/02 | Drawn | 0-0 (3) |
| Trans-Tasman Trophy (NZ in AUS), 2004/05 | Australia | 2-0 (2) |
| Trans-Tasman Trophy (AUS in NZ), 2004/05 | Australia | 2-0 (3) |
| Trans-Tasman Trophy (NZ in AUS), 2008/09 | Australia | 2-0 (2) |
| Trans-Tasman Trophy (AUS in NZ), 2009/10 | Australia | 2-0 (2) |
| Trans-Tasman Trophy (NZ in AUS), 2011/12 | Drawn | 1-1 (2) |
| Trans-Tasman Trophy [NZ in AUS], 2015/16 | Australia | 2-0 (3) |
| Trans-Tasman Trophy [AUS in NZ], 2015/16 | Australia | 2-0 (2) |
| Trans-Tasman Trophy [NZ in AUS], 2019/20 | Australia | 3-0 (3) |
| Australia in New Zealand Test Series, 2023/24 | Australia | 2-0 (2) |
Australia vs New Zealand ODI Matches Timeline
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One Day Internationals have seen numerous memorable matches, including World Cup clashes and bilateral series.
| Series/Tournament + Season | Winner | Margin |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Oct 28, 2023 | Australia | 5 runs |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Sep 11, 2022 | Australia | 25 runs |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Sep 8, 2022 | Australia | 113 runs |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Sep 6, 2022 | Australia | 2 wickets |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Mar 13, 2020 | Australia | 71 runs |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Jun 29, 2019 | Australia | 86 runs |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Jun 2, 2017 | No result | – |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Feb 5, 2017 | New Zealand | 24 runs |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Jan 30, 2017 | New Zealand | 6 runs |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Dec 9, 2016 | Australia | 117 runs |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Dec 6, 2016 | Australia | 116 runs |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Dec 4, 2016 | Australia | 68 runs |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Feb 8, 2016 | New Zealand | 55 runs |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Feb 6, 2016 | Australia | 4 wickets |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Feb 3, 2016 | New Zealand | 159 runs |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Mar 29, 2015 | Australia | 7 wickets |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Feb 28, 2015 | New Zealand | 1 wicket |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Jun 12, 2013 | No result | – |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Feb 25, 2011 | Australia | 7 wickets |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Mar 13, 2010 | New Zealand | 51 runs |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Mar 11, 2010 | Australia | 6 wickets |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Mar 9, 2010 | Australia | 6 wickets |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Mar 6, 2010 | Australia | 12 runs |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Mar 3, 2010 | New Zealand | 2 wickets |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Oct 5, 2009 | Australia | 6 wickets |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Feb 13, 2009 | No result | – |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Feb 10, 2009 | Australia | 6 wickets |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Feb 8, 2009 | Australia | 32 runs |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Feb 6, 2009 | New Zealand | 6 wickets |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Feb 1, 2009 | New Zealand | 2 wickets |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Dec 20, 2007 | Australia | 114 runs |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Dec 16, 2007 | No result | – |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Dec 14, 2007 | Australia | 7 wickets |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Apr 20, 2007 | Australia | 215 runs |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Feb 20, 2007 | New Zealand | 1 wicket |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Feb 18, 2007 | New Zealand | 5 wickets |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Feb 16, 2007 | New Zealand | 10 wickets |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Feb 4, 2007 | Australia | 5 wickets |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Jan 28, 2007 | Australia | 8 runs |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Jan 21, 2007 | Australia | 2 wickets |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Jan 14, 2007 | Australia | 105 runs |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Nov 1, 2006 | Australia | 34 runs |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Dec 10, 2005 | New Zealand | 2 wickets |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Dec 7, 2005 | Australia | 2 runs |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Dec 3, 2005 | Australia | 147 runs |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Mar 5, 2005 | Australia | 122 runs |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Mar 1, 2005 | Australia | 7 wickets |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Feb 26, 2005 | Australia | 86 runs |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Feb 22, 2005 | Australia | 106 runs |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Feb 19, 2005 | Australia | 10 runs |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Dec 8, 2004 | Australia | 17 runs |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Dec 5, 2004 | New Zealand | 4 wickets |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Sep 16, 2004 | Australia | 7 wickets |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Nov 9, 2003 | Australia | 44 runs |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Nov 3, 2003 | Australia | 2 wickets |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Oct 29, 2003 | Australia | 8 wickets |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Mar 11, 2003 | Australia | 96 runs |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Sep 15, 2002 | Australia | 164 runs |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Jan 29, 2002 | Australia | 2 wickets |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Jan 26, 2002 | New Zealand | 77 runs |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Jan 17, 2002 | New Zealand | 23 runs |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Jan 11, 2002 | New Zealand | 23 runs |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Mar 3, 2000 | New Zealand | 7 wickets |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Mar 1, 2000 | Australia | 5 wickets |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Feb 26, 2000 | Australia | 48 runs |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Feb 23, 2000 | Australia | 50 runs |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Feb 19, 2000 | Australia | 5 wickets |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Feb 17, 2000 | No result | – |
| Australia vs New Zealand, May 20, 1999 | New Zealand | 5 wickets |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Apr 21, 1998 | Australia | 5 wickets |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Apr 18, 1998 | Australia | 6 wickets |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Feb 14, 1998 | New Zealand | 30 runs |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Feb 12, 1998 | New Zealand | 7 wickets |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Feb 10, 1998 | Australia | 66 runs |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Feb 8, 1998 | Australia | 7 wickets |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Jan 21, 1998 | New Zealand | 4 wickets |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Jan 14, 1998 | Australia | 131 runs |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Dec 17, 1997 | Australia | 6 wickets |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Dec 7, 1997 | Australia | 3 wickets |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Mar 11, 1996 | Australia | 6 wickets |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Feb 26, 1995 | Australia | 6 wickets |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Feb 19, 1995 | Australia | 27 runs |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Apr 16, 1994 | Australia | 7 wickets |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Jan 19, 1994 | Australia | 51 runs |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Jan 11, 1994 | New Zealand | 13 runs |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Dec 16, 1993 | Australia | 3 runs |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Dec 12, 1993 | Australia | 8 wickets |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Mar 28, 1993 | New Zealand | 3 wickets |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Mar 27, 1993 | New Zealand | 88 runs |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Mar 24, 1993 | New Zealand | 3 wickets |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Mar 21–22, 1993 | Australia | 1 wicket |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Mar 19, 1993 | Australia | 129 runs |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Feb 22, 1992 | New Zealand | 37 runs |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Jan 15, 1991 | Australia | 7 wickets |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Jan 13, 1991 | Australia | 6 wickets |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Dec 18, 1990 | New Zealand | 1 run |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Dec 11, 1990 | Australia | 39 runs |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Dec 2, 1990 | Australia | 6 wickets |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Nov 29, 1990 | Australia | 61 runs |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Apr 26, 1990 | Australia | 63 runs |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Mar 11, 1990 | New Zealand | 8 wickets |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Mar 10, 1990 | Australia | 10 runs |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Mar 4, 1990 | Australia | 150 runs |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Jan 24, 1988 | Australia | 6 wickets |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Jan 22, 1988 | Australia | 8 wickets |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Jan 20, 1988 | Australia | 78 runs |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Jan 17, 1988 | Australia | 5 wickets |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Jan 7, 1988 | Australia | 6 runs |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Jan 3, 1988 | New Zealand | 1 run |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Oct 27, 1987 | Australia | 17 runs |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Oct 18-19, 1987 | Australia | 3 runs |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Mar 29, 1986 | New Zealand | 44 runs |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Mar 26, 1986 | Australia | 3 wickets |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Mar 22, 1986 | New Zealand | 53 runs |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Mar 19, 1986 | New Zealand | 30 runs |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Jan 29, 1986 | Australia | 99 runs |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Jan 27, 1986 | New Zealand | 206 runs |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Jan 19, 1986 | Australia | 4 wickets |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Jan 14, 1986 | Australia | 4 wickets |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Jan 9, 1986 | No result | – |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Mar 17, 1983 | New Zealand | 14 runs |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Feb 13, 1983 | Australia | 149 runs |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Feb 9, 1983 | Australia | 6 wickets |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Feb 6, 1983 | Australia | 27 runs |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Jan 31, 1983 | New Zealand | 47 runs |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Jan 22, 1983 | New Zealand | 58 runs |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Jan 18, 1983 | New Zealand | 47 runs |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Jan 9, 1983 | Australia | 8 wickets |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Feb 20, 1982 | Australia | 8 wickets |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Feb 17, 1982 | Australia | 6 wickets |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Feb 13, 1982 | New Zealand | 46 runs |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Feb 3, 1981 | Australia | 6 wickets |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Feb 1, 1981 | Australia | 6 runs |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Jan 31, 1981 | Australia | 7 wickets |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Jan 29, 1981 | New Zealand | 78 runs |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Jan 21, 1981 | No result | – |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Jan 13, 1981 | New Zealand | 1 run |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Jan 7, 1981 | Australia | 4 wickets |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Dec 7, 1980 | Australia | 94 runs |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Nov 25, 1980 | New Zealand | 3 wickets |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Nov 23, 1980 | Australia | 31 runs |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Mar 31, 1974 | Australia | 7 wickets |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Mar 30, 1974 | Australia | 7 wickets |
Australia vs New Zealand T20I Matches Timeline
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The shortest format has been highly competitive, with New Zealand slightly edging out Australia.
| Series/Tournament + Season | Winner | Margin |
| New Zealand vs Australia, Feb 25, 2024 | Australia | 27 runs |
| New Zealand vs Australia, Feb 23, 2024 | Australia | 72 runs |
| New Zealand vs Australia, Feb 21, 2024 | Australia | 6 wickets |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Oct 22, 2022 | New Zealand | 89 runs |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Nov 14, 2021 | Australia | 8 wickets |
| New Zealand vs Australia, Mar 7, 2021 | New Zealand | 7 wickets |
| New Zealand vs Australia, Mar 5, 2021 | Australia | 50 runs |
| New Zealand vs Australia, Mar 3, 2021 | Australia | 64 runs |
| New Zealand vs Australia, Feb 25, 2021 | New Zealand | 4 runs |
| New Zealand vs Australia, Feb 22, 2021 | New Zealand | 53 runs |
| New Zealand vs Australia, Feb 21, 2018 | Australia | 19 runs |
| New Zealand vs Australia, Feb 16, 2018 | Australia | 5 wickets |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Feb 3, 2018 | Australia | 7 wickets |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Mar 18, 2016 | New Zealand | 8 runs |
| New Zealand vs Australia, Feb 28, 2010 | Tied | – |
| New Zealand vs Australia, Feb 26, 2010 | Australia | 6 wickets |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Feb 15, 2009 | Australia | 1 run |
| Australia vs New Zealand, Dec 11, 2007 | Australia | 54 runs |
| New Zealand vs Australia, Feb 17, 2005 | Australia | 44 runs |
Let me know if you’d like to refine or continue with additional details!
Key Moments in the Australia vs.New Zealand Rivalry
Iconic Test Match Moments
- Hadlee’s 15 wickets in Brisbane, 1985: A match-winning performance that is celebrated in cricket lore.
- The 2001 Perth Test: Australia’s dominance was on full display as they secured a massive victory.
Memorable ODI Moments
- Underarm incident of 1981: A defining moment that fueled the competitive nature of their encounters.
- 2015 World Cup Final: A pivotal game that underscored Australia’s ODI supremacy.
Thrilling T20 Encounters
- 2021 T20 World Cup Final: A redemption for New Zealand, showcasing their growth in international cricket.
Conclusion: The Future of the Rivalry
The Australia-New Zealand cricket rivalry continues to evolve, offering a blend of tradition and intense competition. As both teams strive to outdo one another, fans can expect more thrilling cricket filled with dramatic moments and outstanding performances.
The respect between the two nations ensures that each match is played in great spirit, adding to the rich tapestry of their storied rivalry.
FAQ
When did the Australia vs New Zealand cricket rivalry begin?
The rivalry began with their first Test match in 1945.
Which team has the upper hand in Test matches?
Australia leads with 33 wins out of 60 matches, while New Zealand has 12 victories.
What is the most iconic moment in their ODI rivalry?
The 1981 underarm incident and the 2015 World Cup Final are two standout moments.
Who has been more successful in T20I matches?
Australia has a better record with 13 wins out of 20 matches played.
What is New Zealand’s most famous Test series win against Australia?
New Zealand’s 2-1 victory in the 1985/86 Trans-Tasman Trophy in Australia is a historic achievement.
What was the result of the 2015 ICC Cricket World Cup Final?
Australia defeated New Zealand by 7 wickets to win the title.
What makes the Australia-New Zealand rivalry special?
The geographical and cultural closeness between the two nations fuels a competitive yet respectful rivalry, producing thrilling contests across all formats.
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