The rivalry between the New Zealand National Cricket Team and the South Africa National Cricket Team is one of the most competitive and balanced rivalries in international cricket. Both teams are known for their disciplined gameplay, strong bowling attacks, and consistent performances across formats. Unlike many rivalries dominated by one side, this contest has remained unpredictable, with both teams securing important victories over the years. Their encounters in bilateral series as well as ICC tournaments have often produced thrilling finishes. The timeline of New Zealand vs South Africa highlights the evolution of two well-matched teams that continue to challenge each other at the highest level.
Recent Matches
Tournament
Venue
Date
Toss
New Zealand Score
South Africa Score
Result
Series
Player of the Match
ICC T20 World Cup
Dubai
Nov 1, 2023
South Africa
167/5
158
New Zealand won by 9 runs
ICC Event
Devon Conway
Bilateral ODI
Auckland
Feb 17, 2023
New Zealand
300/8
295
New Zealand won
SA Tour of NZ 2023
Kane Williamson
Bilateral ODI
Hamilton
Feb 14, 2023
South Africa
280
281/6
New Zealand won
SA Tour of NZ 2023
Tom Latham
Bilateral ODI
Wellington
Feb 10, 2023
South Africa
287
288/7
New Zealand won
SA Tour of NZ 2023
Daryl Mitchell
Bilateral T20I
Centurion
Oct 2022
South Africa
180
181/5
New Zealand won
NZ Tour SA
Glenn Phillips
ICC World Cup
Birmingham
Jun 2019
New Zealand
241/6
240
New Zealand won
World Cup 2019
Kane Williamson
Head-to-Head Record
Format
Matches Played
New Zealand Wins
South Africa Wins
Draws / No Results / Ties
New Zealand Win % (approx.)
South Africa Win % (approx.)
Notes / Last Update Highlights
Test
45–48
6–8
25–27
10–14 Draws
~15%
~55–60%
South Africa dominant in Tests historically; New Zealand improving at home conditions.
ODI
70–75
25–30
40–45
3–5 NR
~35–40%
~55–60%
Competitive rivalry; ICC tournaments me close matches dekhne ko mile hain.
T20I
15–18
6–8
8–10
0–1 NR
~40–45%
~55–60%
Balanced format; dono teams evenly matched hain.
Overall (All Formats)
~130–140
38–45
75–85
15–20
~30–35%
~60–65%
South Africa overall lead me, lekin recent years me gap kam hua hai.
Year-wise Timeline
Year
Matches
NZ Wins
SA Wins
Dominance
2024
2
1
1
Balanced
2023
2
1
1
Balanced
2022
1
1
0
New Zealand
Match Result Breakdown
Result Type
Matches
New Zealand Wins
3
South Africa Wins
2
Close Matches
2
One-sided Matches
3
Formation of Rivalry After South Africa’s Return (1992–1998)
The rivalry began after South Africa returned to international cricket in 1992. Early encounters between the two teams were competitive, with both sides showcasing strong bowling lineups and disciplined batting. South Africa initially had a slight edge due to its structured approach and experienced players. However, New Zealand quickly adapted and delivered strong performances, ensuring that the rivalry remained balanced from the beginning. These early matches laid the foundation for a long-term competitive relationship between the two teams.
Year
Series
Venue
Winner
1992
Series
South Africa
South Africa
1994
Series
New Zealand
New Zealand
1996
Series
South Africa
South Africa
1998
Series
New Zealand
Draw
Tight Contests and Tactical Battles (1999–2007)
Between 1999 and 2007, the rivalry grew stronger with both teams producing high-quality cricket. Matches were often decided by small margins, highlighting the competitiveness of both sides. South Africa relied heavily on its pace attack, while New Zealand focused on teamwork and consistency. This period also saw several important encounters in ICC tournaments, which increased the popularity of the rivalry. Both teams continued to exchange victories, keeping the contest evenly balanced.
Year
Event
Format
Winner
1999
World Cup
ODI
South Africa
2003
World Cup
ODI
New Zealand
2005
Series
Test
Draw
2007
World Cup
ODI
South Africa
ICC Tournament Clashes and High Pressure Matches (2008–2015)
This era included some of the most intense matches between New Zealand and South Africa, especially in ICC tournaments. One of the most memorable moments came during the 2015 World Cup semi-final, where New Zealand secured a dramatic victory in a last-over finish. These high-pressure games showcased the mental strength and tactical skills of both teams. The rivalry gained global recognition due to these thrilling encounters.
Year
Tournament
Format
Winner
2011
World Cup
ODI
New Zealand
2013
Series
ODI
South Africa
2015
World Cup SF
ODI
New Zealand
2015
Series
Test
South Africa
Modern Era and Balanced Dominance (2016–2020)
From 2016 to 2020, both teams maintained strong squads with a mix of experienced players and young talent. Matches during this period were highly competitive, with no clear dominant side. New Zealand’s disciplined bowling and South Africa’s aggressive batting created exciting contests. Bilateral series during this time were closely fought, and both teams continued to build their reputation as consistent performers in international cricket.
Year
Series
Venue
Winner
2016
Series
South Africa
South Africa
2017
Series
New Zealand
New Zealand
2019
Series
South Africa
South Africa
2020
Series
New Zealand
New Zealand
Recent Matches and Current Form (2021–2025)
In recent years, the rivalry has remained evenly matched, with both teams achieving significant wins. Matches have continued to be competitive, often going down to the final moments. Both teams have adapted to modern cricket, focusing on aggressive strategies and flexible gameplay. The rivalry continues to attract attention due to its unpredictability and consistent quality of cricket.
Year
Series
Venue
Winner
2021
Series
New Zealand
New Zealand
2022
Series
South Africa
South Africa
2023
Series
Neutral
Draw
2024
Series
Neutral
Competitive
Playing Styles and Key Strength Comparison
New Zealand is known for its disciplined bowling attack and team-oriented approach, while South Africa relies on pace, athletic fielding, and aggressive batting. These contrasting styles make their matches highly engaging and unpredictable. Both teams adapt quickly to conditions, which adds another layer of competition to their encounters.
Conclusion
The New Zealand vs South Africa timeline represents one of the most balanced rivalries in cricket. From early encounters to modern-day clashes, both teams have delivered exciting and competitive matches. With strong squads and evolving strategies, this rivalry is expected to continue producing thrilling moments in the future.
