The South Africa national cricket team vs New Zealand national cricket team match scorecard reflects one of the most balanced and intense rivalries in international cricket. Historically, South Africa has dominated the overall head-to-head records in Test and ODI formats, winning 42 out of 74 ODIs and 26 out of 47 Tests. However, New Zealand has frequently emerged as the “bogey team” for the Proteas in major ICC tournaments, most notably winning five consecutive World Cup encounters between 2003 and 2019 and the most recent 2025 Champions Trophy semi-final.
In this comprehensive guide, we analyze the deep-rooted competitive history between these two nations, examine the scorecards of their most iconic encounters, and provide a breakdown of the statistical leaders who have defined this matchup. Whether you are looking for the latest 2025 series results or the classic scorecards from the 1990s, this article covers the tactical shifts and individual performances that make this rivalry a cornerstone of the global game.
Overall Head-to-Head Record Comparison
South Africa holds a significant lead in the total number of victories across all international formats, largely due to their dominance in the late 1990s and early 2000s. In Test matches, the Proteas have secured 26 wins to New Zealand’s 5, while in ODIs, the gap is 42 to 27 in favor of South Africa.
Despite South Africa’s statistical edge, the narrative of the rivalry changed significantly in the 21st century as New Zealand improved their record in high-pressure knockout games. The “Black Caps” have cultivated a reputation for punching above their weight in ICC events, often defending low totals or chasing down daunting targets against South African bowling attacks.
| Format | Matches Played | South Africa Wins | New Zealand Wins | Draw/NR |
| Test Matches | 47 | 26 | 5 | 16 |
| ODI Matches | 74 | 42 | 27 | 5 |
| T20 Internationals | 15 | 11 | 4 | 0 |
2025 Champions Trophy Semi-Final Scorecard
The most recent major encounter occurred on March 5, 2025, at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, where New Zealand defeated South Africa by 50 runs to reach the final. New Zealand posted a massive 362/6, driven by centuries from Kane Williamson and Rachin Ravindra, while David Miller’s heroic 100* for South Africa was not enough to bridge the gap.
New Zealand Innings (362/6)
The Black Caps capitalized on a flat pitch, with Rachin Ravindra scoring 108 and Kane Williamson adding another century to his tally. South African bowlers struggled for rhythm, with only Kagiso Rabada managing to keep the economy rate under six during the powerplay.
South Africa Innings (312/9)
South Africa’s chase started steadily with Temba Bavuma (56) and Rassie van der Dussen (69), but the middle order collapsed against the spin of Mitchell Santner. David Miller’s century off the final ball provided a face-saving margin, but the result was never in doubt after the 40th over.
2023 World Cup Match Scorecard
In the 2023 ICC Cricket World Cup, South Africa recorded one of their most dominant wins over New Zealand at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Pune. Batting first, the Proteas amassed 357/4, led by centuries from Quinton de Kock (114) and Rassie van der Dussen (133).
In response, New Zealand’s batting lineup crumbled under the pace of Marco Jansen and the spin of Keshav Maharaj, eventually being bowled out for just 167 runs. This 190-run victory remains South Africa’s largest margin of victory against New Zealand in World Cup history, momentarily breaking the “bogey team” curse that had plagued them for two decades.
The 2015 World Cup Semi-Final Classic
The 2015 semi-final at Eden Park, Auckland, is widely regarded as the greatest match ever played between these two nations. In a rain-affected encounter, South Africa set a target of 298 (DLS) in 43 overs, but Grant Elliott’s historic six off the penultimate ball of the match secured a 4-wicket win for the Kiwis.
This match remains a painful memory for South African fans, as it was the closest the “Golden Generation” came to a World Cup final. The image of a tearful Morne Morkel and AB de Villiers became iconic, symbolizing the emotional stakes of this specific international rivalry.
Test Match History and Series Results
South Africa’s dominance in red-ball cricket against New Zealand was almost absolute for decades, with the Kiwis failing to win a single Test series against them until the 2023-24 season. The Proteas’ pace batteries, featuring legends like Allan Donald, Shaun Pollock, and Dale Steyn, frequently overwhelmed New Zealand’s top order in both home and away conditions.
However, the tide has begun to turn as New Zealand’s “Greatest Generation” led by Kane Williamson and Tim Southee has stabilized their Test performances. The 2024 series saw New Zealand secure a historic 2-0 whitewash against a depleted South African side, marking a significant shift in the historical power balance of the format.
T20 International Statistical Overview
In the shortest format, South Africa has maintained a clinical edge, winning 11 out of 15 matches played since their first meeting in 2005. The Proteas’ ability to produce high-impact power hitters like David Miller and Heinrich Klaasen has often been the deciding factor in these fast-paced contests.
Recent T20I encounters, including the 2025 Tri-Series in Zimbabwe, have seen more competitive scores. New Zealand’s focus on tactical versatility and “bits-and-pieces” all-rounders like Mitchell Santner has made them a tougher out in subcontinental conditions where spin plays a larger role.
Top Batting Performances: All-Time
Jacques Kallis remains the gold standard for South African batting in this rivalry, having scored 1,449 runs in ODIs alone against the Black Caps. His ability to anchor the innings allowed stroke-makers like Herschelle Gibbs and AB de Villiers to play aggressively around him.
For New Zealand, Stephen Fleming and Kane Williamson have been the primary thorns in the side of South African bowlers. Williamson, in particular, has a remarkable record of scoring centuries in crucial tournament matches, including the 2019 World Cup and the 2025 Champions Trophy.
- Most Runs (SA): Jacques Kallis (1,449)
- Most Runs (NZ): Stephen Fleming (1,280)
- Highest Individual Score: Martin Guptill (180*)
Leading Wicket-Takers: Pace and Spin
Shaun Pollock leads the historical bowling charts for South Africa with 48 ODI wickets, characterized by his relentless accuracy and movement. In more recent years, Kagiso Rabada has taken over the mantle, using his raw pace to unsettle New Zealand’s top-order batters.
New Zealand’s bowling success has often relied on swing and seam movement. Kyle Mills and Chris Cairns were highly effective in the 2000s, while the modern duo of Trent Boult and Tim Southee has mastered the art of using the new ball to take early wickets, a strategy that was pivotal in their 2015 and 2019 World Cup victories.
Iconic Stadiums and Playing Conditions
The rivalry has been contested across some of the most beautiful and unique cricket grounds in the world. Newlands in Cape Town and The Wanderers in Johannesburg offer pace and bounce, favoring the traditional South African strength of fast bowling.
In contrast, New Zealand venues like the Basin Reserve and Eden Park often present challenges such as strong winds and short boundaries. The “drop-in” pitches used in New Zealand require a different tactical approach, often rewarding bowlers who can adapt to the Lack of traditional wear and tear over five days of a Test match.
Practical Information and Planning
If you are planning to attend a match between South Africa and New Zealand, here is what you need to know regarding logistics and expectations.
- Tickets: Prices typically range from $20 for general admission to $150 for premium grandstand seating, depending on the venue and format.
- Best Time to Visit: The cricket season in South Africa runs from November to March, while New Zealand’s season spans from December to April.
- Transport: Most major stadiums like Newlands (Cape Town) or Eden Park (Auckland) are well-connected by public rail and bus networks.
- What to Expect: South African crowds are known for their vibrant energy and “vuvuzelas,” while New Zealand fans are famously knowledgeable and appreciative of good play from both sides.
- Pro Tip: Always check the weather forecast for Auckland or Wellington matches, as rain often plays a role in the DLS calculations for limited-overs games.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who has won more matches between South Africa and New Zealand?
South Africa has won more matches overall, leading in Test (26-5), ODI (42-27), and T20I (11-4) head-to-head records.
What was the result of the last South Africa vs New Zealand match?
In their last major meeting on March 5, 2025, New Zealand beat South Africa by 50 runs in the Champions Trophy semi-final.
Which player has the most runs in SA vs NZ ODIs?
Jacques Kallis holds the record for South Africa with 1,449 runs, while Stephen Fleming leads for New Zealand with 1,280 runs.
How many times has New Zealand beaten South Africa in World Cups?
New Zealand has a superior World Cup record against South Africa, winning 6 out of 9 encounters, including a streak of five wins between 2003 and 2019.
What is the highest team total in a South Africa vs New Zealand ODI?
South Africa holds the record for the highest total with 357/4, achieved during the 2023 World Cup in Pune.
Who is the leading wicket-taker in this rivalry?
Shaun Pollock remains the leading wicket-taker in ODIs with 48 wickets, while Chris Cairns leads for New Zealand with 37.
Has South Africa ever won a Test series in New Zealand?
Yes, South Africa had never lost a Test series to New Zealand until the 2023-24 season, where New Zealand finally secured a historic 2-0 win.
What was the “Grant Elliott” match?
This refers to the 2015 World Cup semi-final where Grant Elliott hit a six off the second-to-last ball to win the game for New Zealand.
Where can I find the full scorecard for the 2025 series?
Full scorecards are available on official platforms like the ICC website, ESPNcricinfo, and major sports news outlets.
Are there upcoming matches between SA and NZ in 2026?
Yes, the teams are scheduled to meet in the 2026 Men’s T20 World Cup group stages in February.
Final Thoughts
The South Africa national cricket team vs New Zealand national cricket team match scorecard is more than just a tally of runs and wickets; it is a record of two of cricket’s most resilient nations. From the heartbreak of the 2015 World Cup to New Zealand’s historic Test series win in 2024 and their recent dominance in the 2025 Champions Trophy, this rivalry continues to produce high-drama spectacles. While South Africa maintains the lead in overall bilateral statistics, New Zealand’s ability to triumph in “clutch” moments has defined the modern era of this contest.
As both teams eye the 2027 ODI World Cup, the tactical battles between their captains and the emergence of new stars like Rachin Ravindra and Gerald Coetzee promise to add fresh chapters to this storied history. For fans, every scorecard represents a new opportunity to witness world-class cricket played with intensity, integrity, and incomparable skill.
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