Dubai [UAE]: Cricket is entering a new era with the launch of Test Twenty, a revolutionary format, platform, and global movement aimed at discovering and nurturing young talent worldwide. Conceptualised by sports entrepreneur Gaurav Bahirvani, Executive Chairman of the One One Six Network, Test Twenty fuses the strategic depth of traditional cricket with the pace and excitement of modern formats, creating the sport’s boldest reinvention to date.

A new vision for the game

Test Twenty is a youth-first global initiative targeting players aged 13 to 19. It features two innings of 20 overs per side with cumulative scoring, blending the endurance and artistry of Test cricket with the tempo of limited-overs games. Matches can end in a win, loss, tie, or draw, preserving cricket’s full competitive spectrum.

Bahirvani is supported by some of the game’s most iconic figures — AB de Villiers, Sir Clive Lloyd, Matthew Hayden, and Harbhajan Singh — who form the Test Twenty Advisory Board to guide the platform’s evolution.

Insights from cricket legends

AB de Villiers called Test Twenty “innovation with intent,” emphasising its role in giving young players a platform to dream and fans a new story to follow. Sir Clive Lloyd highlighted how the format restores the rhythm and artistry of cricket while keeping the modern audience engaged. Matthew Hayden described it as a bridge between eras, providing mentorship and personal growth opportunities for youth players. Harbhajan Singh added that the format connects today’s generation with cricket’s original spirit.

The four pillars of Test Twenty

  1. A new format: Test Twenty combines strategy and pace, with each team batting twice in 20-over innings. Traditional rules are blended with modern adjustments, ensuring matches remain immersive, broadcast-friendly, and competitive.
  2. A new generation: The format focuses on discovering talent from across the globe through a data-driven selection process. Players not making the first cut continue to receive mentorship, training, and resources to improve. Future seasons will also include women cricketers, promoting inclusivity and equality.
  3. A new technology: Test Twenty employs an AI Discovery Engine, motion sensors, video analytics, and a three-tiered selection model to identify talent objectively, reducing human bias. Tech-Transfer Partnerships allow cricket boards worldwide to benefit from verified performance insights.
  4. A new tournament: The inaugural season in January 2026 features six global franchises — three international (Dubai, London, and a U.S. city) and three Indian. Talent is drawn from the Junior Test Twenty Championship, spanning over 50 countries. Franchises assemble 16-player squads with equal Indian and international representation.

Registration and selection

Player registration began on 16 October 2025, offering two entry routes:

  • Direct Entry Route: Fast-track evaluation for players recommended by recognised cricket academies, administrators, or former/professional cricketers.
  • Standard Entry Route: AI-driven Level 1 assessment, City Trials, and National/World Pools leading to 1,000 players shortlisted for evaluation.

Top 300 players from the evaluation phase enter the Global Auction Pool, forming squads for the inaugural season, while the remaining 204 form a Wildcard Pool eligible for mid-season selection.

Industry endorsements

Niranjan Shah, former BCCI secretary, called Test Twenty a visionary platform bridging Test cricket with modern play. Madan Lal, former coach and World Cup winner, said it offers a global stage for young cricketers to showcase their skills. AB de Villiers, Sir Clive Lloyd, Matthew Hayden, and Harbhajan Singh echoed support, highlighting its combination of tradition, innovation, and opportunity.

Conclusion:

Test Twenty® marks cricket’s next transformative chapter, combining heritage, innovation, and youth development. By providing a global stage for emerging talent, the format promises to reshape the sport for a new generation while preserving its timeless spirit.