Mumbai: Cricket is on the cusp of a historic transformation with the launch of Test Twenty, a bold new format and global movement that redefines the game for the next generation. Conceptualised by Gaurav Bahirvani, Executive Chairman of the One One Six Network and the architect of the Fourth Format, Test Twenty aims to bridge the gap between tradition and modernity while creating a global platform for youth cricket.
Bahirvani announced the initiative alongside some of cricket’s greatest legends — AB de Villiers, Sir Clive Lloyd, Matthew Hayden, and Harbhajan Singh — who form the Test Twenty Advisory Board. Together, they envision a future where cricket’s artistry, endurance, and strategy meet the energy and innovation of the modern age.
A format blending tradition and innovation
At the heart of the movement is a new format designed to merge the depth of Test cricket with the pace and excitement of T20. Test Twenty matches will be played over 80 overs, featuring two innings of 20 overs per side, with scores carried forward — much like in Test matches.
The result? A format that combines the strategy of the five-day game with the fast-paced drama of the shorter version, ensuring contests can still end in a win, loss, tie, or draw.
“This is not another league; it’s a living tribute to the spirit of cricket,” said Bahirvani. “Test Twenty preserves the game’s legacy while shaping its future. It revives the endurance of Test cricket — all within a single day.”
A youth-first global movement
Test Twenty is built around a youth-first philosophy, targeting cricketers aged 13 to 19. The platform will scout, train, and nurture young talent from around the world through a data-driven, analytics-based selection system.
Players who don’t make the cut initially will remain within the Test Twenty ecosystem, gaining mentorship and resources to improve. From Season Two, the initiative will also open its doors to women cricketers, ensuring inclusivity in the sport’s next chapter.
“What NCAA has done for basketball, we’re doing for cricket,” Bahirvani explained. “Test Twenty creates a connected global talent ecosystem where merit, not geography, determines opportunity.”
AI-driven talent discovery
Central to Test Twenty’s talent programme is a proprietary AI Discovery Engine, which uses machine learning, video analytics, and motion-sensor technology to assess player skills with accuracy.
The system’s three-tiered selection model blends AI evaluation with expert review, removing human bias and ensuring objective assessment. Test Twenty also plans to share this technology through Tech-Transfer Partnerships (TTPs) with cricket associations and academies worldwide.
“Our mission is to complement, not compete, with existing cricket institutions,” Bahirvani clarified. “We deeply respect the ICC, national boards, and state associations. Test Twenty will serve as a feeder system that strengthens cricket’s global talent pipeline.”
The Test Twenty Championship
The inaugural Test Twenty season is set to debut in January 2026, featuring six global franchises — three based in India and three international (Dubai, London, and a U.S. city).
The player pool will be sourced from the Junior Test Twenty Championship™ (JTTC) — a worldwide youth cricket tournament covering over 50 nations. From this platform, the top 300 players will enter the Global Auction Pool, where 96 will be drafted into franchise squads of 16 players each (8 Indian, 8 international). The remaining 204 will enter the Wildcard Pool, making them eligible for mid-season selection.
Each franchise will also have a next-generation celebrity stakeholder, merging sport, storytelling, and global entertainment.
“We’ve consciously moved away from the idea of a ‘league,’” Bahirvani said. “Test Twenty is a championship — a celebration of excellence, crowned with legacy.”
Endorsements from cricketing legends
AB de Villiers, known for redefining modern batting, hailed Test Twenty as “innovation with intent.”
“It honours the traditions of the game while embracing the possibilities of the future,” he said. “It gives young players a new dream to chase.”
Sir Clive Lloyd, former West Indies captain and World Cup winner, called the format a revival of cricket’s rhythm.
“Cricket has always adapted, but never this thoughtfully. Test Twenty restores the art of building an innings while keeping it alive with modern energy.”
Matthew Hayden, the former Australian opener, described it as a bridge between generations.
“It’s a format that carries the wisdom of the old world into the fire of the new. It’s not just competition; it’s education and character.”
Harbhajan Singh, one of India’s greatest spinners, praised its youth-centric mission.
“Cricket needed a fresh heartbeat. Test Twenty connects today’s youth with the game’s original spirit.”
Backed by leaders in sports management
Joining Bahirvani on the operational front is Michael Fordham, former CEO of the Rajasthan Royals IPL team, who brings decades of global sports management experience as Chief Operating Officer of Test Twenty.
Veteran administrators Niranjan Shah and Madan Lal also expressed strong support, calling the Fourth Format a defining step in cricket’s evolution.
“It bridges the timeless spirit of Test cricket with the energy of modern play,” said Shah.
“It’s a game-changer for young talent everywhere,” added Lal.