IND vs NZ: What's changed in cricket since India's ICC victory in 2003 over New Zealand?

For the two undefeated teams, India and New Zealand, in the ICC Men's ODI World Cup 2023, their journeys have been remarkably parallel. Players from both sides dominate the run and wicket charts, showcasing their balanced strengths. They possess centurions in their top orders, effective fast bowlers in the PowerPlay, skilful left-arm spinners for the middle overs, and unfortunate injuries to key players.

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The real challenge now emerges as they go head-to-head, with one of the unbeaten streaks about to break. The game is set to unfold at the picturesque Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium in Dharamsala, offering intriguing facts to ponder.

Although it's widely known that India has struggled to defeat New Zealand in ICC tournaments, the last being on March 14, 2003, here are some astonishing facts that might surprise fans:

• The era since India's last victory over New Zealand has witnessed the debuts of MS Dhoni, Rohit Sharma, and Virat Kohli.
• Sachin Tendulkar had amassed 20,943 international runs and celebrated 65 centuries.
• Australia had clinched only two ODI World Cups.
• Chris Gayle had smashed a mere 34 sixes into the stands in ODIs.
• Ricky Ponting hadn't yet secured a title as the captain of the Australian cricket team.
• England had not tasted victory in any World Cups, whether in the ODI or T20I format, with Nasser Hussain as their captain.
• Sri Lanka's Kumar Sangakkara had scored only 85 runs in ODIs.
• West Indies' Courtney Walsh was the sole bowler with 500 or more Test cricket wickets.
• The Indian Premier League (IPL) and T20 World Cup had not been introduced yet.

As for the upcoming clash, India has won the toss and elected to field. In the absence of Hardik Pandya due to injury, India made two changes. Shardul Thakur was also replaced, with Mohammed Shami and Suryakumar Yadav coming into the side. The Kiwis have retained their squad.