Cricket Introduces “Test Twenty”: Bold 4th Format Launching in 2026

Cricket, the second most popular sport (after football) globally, is preparing to expand its horizons with the introduction of a new format called “Test Twenty” — a hybrid game blending the strategic depth of traditional Tests with the pace of Twenty20 (T20). Backed by major names in the sport and targeting youth engagement globally, the format is slated to debut in early 2026, beginning in India.

Under the banner of Test Twenty, the game will comprise a total of 80 overs (an over is a set of six legal balls bowled by a single bowler from one end of the pitch), with each team batting twice for 20 overs apiece. Scores will carry over between innings (an inning is a period of play where one team bats, and the other team fields), and matches can conclude not just with a win or loss, but also a tie or draw, leaving in place one of the key hallmarks of traditional Test cricket.

Designed to bridge the gap between the long-form and short-form variants (Tests, One Day Internationals /ODIs/, and T20s), the format hopes to deliver spectator-friendly cricket without totally abandoning the nuance of the game’s longer version.

Launch Plan & Audience Focus

The inaugural edition is set for India – the nation where cricket is the most popular sport, so much so that even harsh penalties on betting on it outside India’s licensed operators don’t prevent fans from doing so using offshore sports betting sites – and is expected to kick off as early as January 2026. The first two seasons will be India-based, with later intent to expand into international markets.

Importantly, the format is geared toward the 13-19 age group — both as players and spectators — signaling a strong youth-orientation. For this demographic, entry will be free of charge (with ID verification) to encourage stadium attendance and future fan engagement.

The organizer, Gaurav Bahirvani, has stated that India is the ideal starting point given its massive cricket audience, but also emphasized ambitions for “non-traditional” cricket nations to get involved as the league tours globally.

Backing & Credibility: Big Names on Board

Test Twenty already boasts an advisory board of cricketing legends. Names like AB de Villiers, Matthew Hayden, Harbhajan Singh, and Sir Clive Lloyd have publicly expressed support.

Sir Clive Lloyd has been particularly vocal about the need to “revive” the spirit of Test cricket, saying that the longest format has been neglected in certain parts of the cricket world. This new format is shaped not to replace, but to supplement Test cricket.

Development Engine & Global Ambition

Beyond the game itself, the format will introduce what’s described as an “AI Discovery Engine” — leveraging video analysis, motion-sensor technology, and data science to identify talent worldwide. This tech-driven scouting framework will be part of a broader strategy to professionalize and globalize the game.

The plan is to launch with six global franchises: three based in India, and three in international markets (such as Dubai, London, and the USA). Each squad will comprise 16 players, split evenly between Indian and overseas talent.

Why It Matters — And What Lies Ahead

The rollout of Test Twenty is significant because it symbolizes cricket’s evolution in the 21st century. It acknowledges the commercial and viewing pressures of the shorter formats while attempting to preserve the tactical and endurance aspects of the longer game. By targeting young fans and embracing technology, organizers hope to build a future-facing cricket ecosystem.

However, success is far from guaranteed. Key questions remain: Will the wider cricket ecosystem and governing bodies embrace the format? Can it genuinely deliver both entertainment value and development opportunities? How will purists react to a game labeled “Test” but played in a dramatically shorter time frame?

If all goes to plan, test Twenty may become cricket’s fourth official format — after Tests, ODIs, and T20Is — offering a fresh narrative for fans and players alike as the sport continues to expand globally.