Cricket is launching an thrilling new format, Test Twenty, aimed at winning over young fans between 13 and 19 years while fusing the strategic richness of Test cricket with the high-octane thrill of T20s. The initial installment will be rolled out in India in January 2026, with four 20-over innings per team, providing two opportunities for each to bat and bowl. Stars such as Matthew Hayden, Harbhajan Singh, Sir Clive Lloyd, and AB de Villiers have already endorsed the innovation, which hints at a new direction in the game.
What is Test Twenty?
Test Twenty is a fusion of Test matches and T20 cricket in which each game is of 80 overs, divided into four innings of 20 overs each, and in which each team gets to bat and bowl twice. The scores are forwarded across innings and games can finish in victory, defeat, tie, or draw, retaining the spirit of Test cricket competitions and at the same time keeping the quick nature of T20s intact.
The format has been created to find appeal among younger generations and to design a global tournament format that can travel across multiple nations after the initial rollouts in India.
Why Was Test Twenty Created?
Test Twenty aims at teenagers and young adults who may find long-standing Test matches too tedious and T20s too short. “We wanted a format that retains the depth and strategy of Tests but brings in pace and excitement,” Bahirvani said.
India was the launch choice because of its massive cricket viewing audience. The ultimate goal is to establish a touring league to attract involvement from non-traditional cricketing countries, opening up an opportunity for young people around the world to have some competitive cricket experience.
What is the Format of Test Twenty?
The Test Twenty match format will be:
- Total overs: 80
- Innings: 2 per team, scores carried over
- Results: Win, loss, tie, or draw
- Rules: Modified from Test and T20 cricket to accommodate a quicker pace
Young people aged 13–19 are allowed to view the championship for free with proper ID, thereby making it more accessible and exciting for young supporters.
What Cricket Legends Say About Test Twenty?
Sir Clive Lloyd welcomed the move, saying that Test cricket has been overlooked in the last few years. “We have forgotten about Test cricket, and it’s time to revive it. This format can help maintain the spirit of Tests while drawing in new fans,” he opined.
He also highlighted that smaller cricketing nations, like those in the Caribbean, could benefit from the exposure and financial support generated by this new format, ensuring the long-term sustainability of cricket globally.
When Does Test Twenty Begin?
The initial Test Twenty is set to start in January 2026 in India. The intention is to pilot the format in several locations, with a view to scaling it up globally in the next few years.
Through Test Twenty, cricket looks to find the ideal balance between the old and the new, providing a format that challenges skill but also keeps spectators on the edge.
