Former cricket stars Matthew Hayden, Harbhajan Singh, Sir Clive Lloyd, and AB de Villiers jointly announced this innovative format, which aims to combine the strategic depth of Test matches with the fast-paced excitement of T20 cricket.

According to details, Test T20 will be played under the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) playing rules and will feature a total of 80 overs. Each team will play two innings, with 20 overs per innings, blending endurance with explosive play.

The new format allows all four possible outcomes – win, loss, tie, or draw. Initially, six franchise teams will take part, and the first two editions will be hosted in India. The official launch of Test T20 is set for January 2026.

Currently, four global formats – Test, One Day, T20, and T10 – dominate the cricketing scene. However, Test T20 is being hailed as a modern and thrilling addition that could redefine the sport.

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Experts believe this hybrid format will offer fans the best of both worlds: the tactical brilliance of Test cricket and the high-energy action of T20. Many predict it could completely reshape the future of the game.

This new format seems designed to attract both traditional cricket lovers and younger audiences seeking fast-paced entertainment. With legends like AB de Villiers and Hayden backing the idea, Test T20 could become a global sensation and set new commercial and sporting benchmarks. The mix of strategy and speed might just redefine how cricket is played and watched.