India vs New Zealand: Top Controversies from IND vs NZ Rivalry in ODI

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India vs New Zealand: The cricketing rivalry between India and New Zealand has been marked by numerous memorable matches and, at times, contentious incidents that have added intrigue to their encounters.

As both teams prepare to face each other in the upcoming group game of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 on March 2, it's an opportune moment to reflect on some of the most notable controversies that have punctuated their One Day International history.

1. World Cup 2023 Semi-Final Pitch Controversy

In the 2023 ICC Cricket World Cup, the semi-final clash between India and New Zealand at Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium was overshadowed by a significant pitch-related controversy.

Originally, the match was slated to be played on a fresh central strip, known as Pitch 7. However, reports emerged that the groundsmen had switched to Pitch 6, a surface that had already been used in two prior matches during the tournament. This unexpected change led to widespread speculation and allegations that the Indian team management had influenced the decision to procure a slower pitch that might favour their playing style.

The ICC faced criticism over this alteration, with concerns about the integrity and fairness of the match conditions being raised by various stakeholders in the cricketing community.

2. Pune ODI Corruption Scandal in 2017

The second ODI between India and New Zealand in Pune in 2017 was marred by allegations of corruption involving the pitch curator, Pandurang Salgaoncar. A sting operation conducted by a television channel showed Salgaoncar allegedly agreeing to manipulate the pitch conditions to favour certain bowlers, as per the undercover reporters' requests.

In the footage, he was seen allowing unauthorised individuals to inspect the pitch and making statements about tailoring the surface to produce high-scoring conditions. These revelations prompted immediate action from the BCCI, which suspended Salgaoncar and initiated an investigation into the matter.

3. Hardik Pandya's Controversial Dismissal in 2023

During the first ODI between India and New Zealand in 2023, a contentious decision led to the dismissal of Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya. In the 40th over of India's innings, bowled by Daryl Mitchell, a delivery passed close to Pandya's bat, and the bails were dislodged, leading to an appeal for bowled.

Replays indicated that the ball had not made contact with the stumps, and there was speculation that wicketkeeper Tom Latham's gloves might have caused the bails to fall. Despite the ambiguity, the third umpire upheld the on-field decision, ruling Pandya out.

4. ICC CEO's Remark After India's Defeat in 2019

In 2019, during a bilateral ODI series, India suffered a surprising 8-wicket defeat to New Zealand in the fourth match. Following this unexpected result, ICC CEO David Richardson made a remark stating, "Every dog has its day," when asked about India's loss.

This comment was perceived by many Indian fans and cricket pundits as insensitive and dismissive of the efforts put in by the Men in Blue.

These incidents are a testament to the intense and, at times, contentious nature of the India-New Zealand cricket rivalry. As both teams gear up for their next encounter in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, fans worldwide will be keenly watching, hoping for a thrilling contest free from controversy.