Test Twenty: New format of cricket will be launched on this day, here are the rules
Test Twenty: Cricket changes constantly, but this time a new format has been born, which will further enhance the excitement of cricket. To this end, West Indies great Sir Clive Lloyd, former South African captain AB de Villiers, former Australian opener Matthew Hayden, and former Indian player Harbhajan Singh have been included in the advisory board of the Test Twenty format.
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In addition, former Rajasthan Royals CEO Michael Fordham has been appointed as the Chief Operating Officer.
What is the new format?
The Test Twenty format will attempt to combine aspects of Test cricket with T20. It will be the world's first 80-over format. However, instead of playing 40 overs simultaneously, both teams will play two innings of 20 overs each. Each team will bat twice, just like in a Test match. Both Test and T20 cricket rules will apply. All four possible outcomes are a win, a loss, a tie, or a draw.
When will Test Twenty20 begin?
The first season of Test Twenty20 will begin in January 2026. Six franchises will participate: three from India and three from Dubai, London, and the United States. Each team will consist of 16 players. This new format was officially launched on October 16. Test Twenty20 is the brainchild of Gaurav Bahirwani, Executive Chairman of The One One Six Network. This format has received significant praise from former cricketers.
What did the former players say?
Former South African cricketer AB de Villiers said that Test Twenty20 will add more excitement to cricket and provide ample opportunities for young players.
Proud to have launched Test Twenty®️ with @gauravbahirvani . If you’re 13–19 and play with passion, this is your chance. Register: https://t.co/zNFYTDL6lV@The_Test_Twenty @HaydosTweets #clivelloyd @harbhajan_singh #ParitySports #oneonesixnetwork#TestTwenty #FourthFormat pic.twitter.com/FNDYvM6tJf
— AB de Villiers (@ABdeVilliers17) October 16, 2025
West Indies legend Sir Clive Lloyd said, "Having lived through every era of cricket, I can say that the game has always adapted, but never so deliberately. Test Twenty20 brings back the art and rhythm of the game.
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