When we talk about cricket rivalries, the focus often goes to India vs Pakistan or Ashes clashes. But one of the most underrated rivalries in international cricket is Sri Lanka vs New Zealand. These two nations have faced each other across Tests, ODIs, and T20Is for over four decades, producing thrilling battles, historic wins, and unforgettable performances.
If you are searching for Sri Lanka vs New Zealand timeline, head to head records, and complete match history, you have come to the right place. In this guide, we’ll cover everything from their very first encounter to the latest series.
Introduction to the Sri Lanka Vs New Zealand Rivalry
Sri Lanka vs New Zealand cricket history dates back to the early 1980s. Since then, both teams have developed a competitive rivalry in Tests, ODIs, and T20Is. The timeline of these matches tells a story of growth, resilience, and world-class cricket moments. While New Zealand often holds the upper hand in home conditions, Sri Lanka has scripted famous victories on their soil too. Understanding their head-to-head stats and records helps fans appreciate how this rivalry has evolved over time.
Sri Lanka Vs New Zealand Cricket Timeline: Head-to-Head Records
| Format | First Match | Total Matches Played | Sri Lanka Wins | New Zealand Wins | Draw / No Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Test Matches | 4 March 1983, Christchurch – NZ won by an innings & 25 runs | 39 Tests | 9 | 18 | 12 Draws |
| ODI Matches | 2 March 1983, Dunedin – NZ won by 65 runs | 111 ODIs | 41 | 63 | 7 No Results |
| T20I Matches | 22 December 2006, Wellington – Sri Lanka won by 18 runs | 23 T20Is | 9 | 13 | 1 No Result |
Disclaimer: The above statistics are based on official records from ICC, New Zealand Cricket (NZC), and Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC). Numbers are accurate as of 2025 and may change with upcoming matches.
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Sri Lanka Vs New Zealand Head To Head Overview
The Sri Lanka vs New Zealand head to head records give us a clear picture of how balanced or one-sided this rivalry has been. Across formats, the teams have played over 200 matches combined. New Zealand has enjoyed more success in recent years, especially in ODIs and T20Is, but Sri Lanka has had its golden phases too.
- Tests: The first Test was played in 1983, with New Zealand winning comfortably. Over the years, Sri Lanka has improved significantly, even winning Test series in New Zealand.
- ODIs: Starting in 1983, their ODI rivalry includes World Cup clashes and series wins for both sides.
- T20Is: This format has produced thrilling encounters with close finishes and high-scoring games.
Sri Lanka Vs New Zealand Test Matches
Looking at Sri Lanka vs New Zealand Test matches, the rivalry has seen some classic encounters. Sri Lanka won their first Test in New Zealand in 1995, a historic milestone in their cricket history. The head to head in Tests shows a slight advantage to New Zealand overall, but Sri Lanka has had memorable wins in Galle and Colombo.
Key Test Highlights:
- First Test: 1983, Christchurch, New Zealand won by an innings.
- Historic Win: 1995, Napier Test, Sri Lanka recorded their first away Test win in New Zealand.
- Recent Series: In 2024, Sri Lanka stunned New Zealand at home with a 2-0 win in Galle.
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Sri Lanka Vs New Zealand ODI Matches
The Sri Lanka vs New Zealand match history in ODIs is packed with action. They first met in Dunedin in 1983. Since then, they have faced each other multiple times in World Cups and bilateral series. New Zealand’s pace attack has troubled Sri Lanka in swinging conditions, while Sri Lanka’s spinners have dominated on turning tracks.
ODI Rivalry Highlights:
- First ODI: 1983, New Zealand won in Dunedin.
- World Cup Clashes: Sri Lanka famously defeated New Zealand in the 1992 and 2011 editions.
- Head To Head: New Zealand leads the ODI head to head stats, especially in recent years.
Sri Lanka Vs New Zealand T20 Matches
In T20Is, the Sri Lanka vs New Zealand rivalry is short but exciting. Their matches often go down to the wire. With both teams known for producing explosive players, these contests always attract fans.
T20I Highlights:
- Sri Lanka won the 2014 World T20 encounter against New Zealand, helping them qualify for the semifinals.
- In 2024, New Zealand pulled off a stunning low-score defense in Dambulla.
- Head to head in T20Is remains closely contested.
Sri Lanka Vs New Zealand Series Results
Looking at the Sri Lanka vs New Zealand series results across formats gives a clear idea of how the rivalry has shifted. In the early years, New Zealand dominated at home, but Sri Lanka slowly built confidence and achieved away success. In recent times, New Zealand’s consistency has kept them slightly ahead.
- Tests: New Zealand leads overall, but Sri Lanka has managed key wins.
- ODIs: New Zealand dominates, especially at home.
- T20Is: Balanced results with both teams claiming wins.
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Sri Lanka Vs New Zealand Head To Head Stats & Records
When we dig into Sri Lanka vs New Zealand cricket stats, some interesting records stand out:
- Highest Test score: New Zealand once scored over 700 runs in a Test against Sri Lanka.
- Legendary Performers: Kumar Sangakkara and Mahela Jayawardene have dominated New Zealand bowlers, while Kane Williamson and Ross Taylor have hurt Sri Lanka in return.
- Bowling Records: Muttiah Muralitharan has troubled New Zealand consistently, while Richard Hadlee and Trent Boult have destroyed Sri Lanka’s batting line-ups.
Sri Lanka Vs New Zealand World Cup Encounters
The Sri Lanka vs New Zealand head to head record in World Cup tournaments adds another exciting chapter. They have met in multiple editions, often in crucial knockout games.
- 1992: Sri Lanka beat New Zealand in New Zealand’s backyard.
- 2007: Sri Lanka defeated New Zealand in the semi-final to reach the World Cup final.
- 2011: Another World Cup semi-final win for Sri Lanka.
These matches underline Sri Lanka’s dominance over New Zealand in World Cup knockouts.
Sri Lanka Vs New Zealand Historical Matches & Rivalry Moments
Some Sri Lanka vs New Zealand historical matches stand out in their rivalry:
- 1995 Napier Test: Sri Lanka’s first away Test win.
- 2007 WC semi-final: Sri Lanka knocked out New Zealand.
- 2024 Galle Tests: Sri Lanka stunned New Zealand with a 2-0 series win.
These highlights make the rivalry one of the most unpredictable in cricket.
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Sri Lanka Vs New Zealand All Matches – The Full Timeline
The Sri Lanka vs New Zealand full timeline includes hundreds of games across formats. Each decade has added new chapters to their rivalry. While New Zealand’s modern dominance is clear, Sri Lanka’s past triumphs make the rivalry rich and historic. From Tests in Christchurch to ODIs in Colombo, and T20Is in Dambulla, every contest has its own story.
Conclusion
The Sri Lanka vs New Zealand rivalry may not always make global headlines, but for true cricket lovers, it is filled with excitement, records, and unforgettable performances. From Sri Lanka’s historic Test win in Napier to World Cup semi-final victories, and from New Zealand’s consistent ODI success to thrilling T20 battles, this timeline is a testament to cricket’s unpredictability. Whether you look at match results, head to head stats, or record books, one thing is certain — this rivalry has given fans plenty of reasons to celebrate.
“The Sri Lanka vs New Zealand cricket timeline is more than just numbers — it’s a story of grit, glory, and unforgettable clashes that shaped an underrated rivalry in world cricket.”
FAQs
1. When was the first Sri Lanka vs New Zealand Test match played?
It was played in 1983 at Christchurch, with New Zealand winning by an innings.
2. Who has the upper hand in Sri Lanka vs New Zealand ODIs?
New Zealand leads in ODI head to head records, especially in recent years.
3. What is the most famous Sri Lanka vs New Zealand World Cup match?
The 2007 World Cup semi-final, where Sri Lanka defeated New Zealand to reach the final.
4. How many times have Sri Lanka and New Zealand met in T20Is?
They have played several times, with the head to head record being closely balanced.
5. Which players hold records in Sri Lanka vs New Zealand matches?
Kumar Sangakkara, Mahela Jayawardene, Muttiah Muralitharan for Sri Lanka; Richard Hadlee, Kane Williamson, and Trent Boult for New Zealand.
6. Has Sri Lanka ever won a Test series in New Zealand?
Yes, in 1995, Sri Lanka won their first-ever Test series in New Zealand.
7. Who scored the highest individual score in Sri Lanka vs New Zealand Tests?
Several double centuries have been scored, with Kane Williamson and Sangakkara leading the charts.
8. Why is the Sri Lanka vs New Zealand rivalry underrated?
Because global focus is often on other rivalries, but in reality, this rivalry has produced some of the most exciting cricket moments in history.
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