Cricketing relationship between new zealand national cricket team vs sri lanka national cricket team timeline has been long dated. Every time has been a time of anticipation, drama, and memorable moments for fans across the globe. Before the two teams focus on the Test series that is ahead of them, it is important to turn to the past. The time line of their contests is marked by many significant events, stunning games and outstanding shows. This is a detailed look at their previous meetings and how these two teams have transformed over the years.
Table of Contents
1983: The Start of a Rivalry
New zealand national cricket team vs sri lanka national cricket team timeline have been playing Test cricket since 1983 when the first test between the two sides was held. Sri Lanka has recently got the Test status and New Zealand was a full member of the international cricket council. The match that took place in Christchurch was completely in favor of New Zealand. Sri Lanka, however, fought hard. With all the loss, they demonstrated what they are capable of. It was also the first time two world-class teams would meet and this created a long-lasting rivalry.
1992: World Cup Drama
The 1992 World Cup was the beginning of a new chapter in this rivalry. The two teams clashed in a decisive group stage fixture. The co-hosts New Zealand were in good shape. While Sri Lanka was still struggling to make its place in the international market. The match was very competitive and New Zealand came out as winners. The victory ensured New Zealand of a place in the knock out stages. It also brought out the fact that Sri Lanka is getting more competitive in world cricket.
1995: Sri Lankan Cricket Team’s first Test victory
New Zealand’s tour of Sri Lanka in 1995 saw Sri Lanka get their first Test victory against New Zealand. This match played in Napier and it was one of the great victories for Sri Lankan cricket team. They won the match by 241 runs to the chagrin of the losing team. This was a major win for Sri Lanka as it signaled the team’s arrival to the world of Test cricket. New Zealand left to ponder on the new tactics that would be effective against the new Asian giant.
2003: World Cup Semi Final Match
The next big event was the 2003 world cup encounter. This time it was semi-final and I was one of the participants of the event. New Zealand was in good form while Sri Lankan team had been in a fluctuating form. The match, but, was one sided. New Zealand were in control from the very beginning to the end of the match and they qualified to the final. The Sri Lanka’s loss was painful but it was also a good lesson.
2006: The Muralitharan Factor
The 2006 Test series in New Zealand was a treat to watch Muralitharan. The legendary spinner was in his elements, teasing the New Zealand batsmen. He was able to take 16 wickets in the series. But, all his endeavours went in vain and New Zealand was able to level the series 1-1. The contest was a clear sign that the rivalry was getting more and more stiff.
2012: New Zealand’s Resurgence
In 2012 New Zealand played a two match test series on the Sri Lankan soil. It was important for both the teams as both were in a process of constructing the team. New Zealand emerged the winner of the series under the captaincy of Ross Taylor the series won 1-0. It was a great victory for New Zealand particularly on the Sri Lankan territory. Consider is as the start of the revival of New Zealand cricket to the international level.
2014: Sri Lanka’s Fightback
The 2014 Test series in New Zealand saw a Sri Lankan come back. They gave their best and were able to make the series end in a 1-1 draw. The best of the series was Kumar Sangakkara’s double century on New Zealand soil in Wellington. It was a perfect example of test cricket batting from him. New Zealand, but, stood their ground to make sure that the series tied.
2019: World Cup Thriller
The match between New Zealand and Sri Lanka in the ICC World Cup 2019 was quite an exciting one. New Zealand was in a very good rhythm and they thrashed Sri Lanka by 10 wickets. That was one of the most one sided matches of the tournament. Sri Lanka but, was able to use this defeat as a spring board and performed better in later games.
2022: A Balanced Contest
In the year 2022 New Zealand and Sri Lanka played another Test series. The series was a close one and both the teams were able to clinch a match each. It was a close affair which showed the plus and minuses of both teams. New Zealand fast bowlers were very effective while Sri Lankan spinners had a very important role in this match. The series tied and people were looking forward to the next face off.
2024: The Upcoming Series
At the time when the 2024 test series were between, both the teams are going through a phase of transition. New Zealand is coming into the match with their main players and they are looking to overpower the opponents. While some of them are regrouping and seeking to make statements, Sri Lanka are rebuilding. The series is a part of the ICC World Test Championship which makes every match even more important. As both teams are fighting for the valuable points this series will be yet another episode of the exciting confrontation.
Conclusion: new zealand national cricket team vs sri lanka national cricket team timeline
Cricket rivalry between new zealand national cricket team vs sri lanka national cricket team timeline has been a memorable one and has given many exciting moments in the game. Every time they met since the first time in 1983 up to the 2024 series, each match has contributed to the development of their rivalry. As both teams get ready for the next clash, the audience will witness more of drama, entertainment and cricketing fireworks. This rivalry is far from over, and the next series will only contribute to the story that is only getting bigger and bigger.