Cricket is set to introduce a new format called Test Twenty, bringing boys’ and girls’ teams together in a competition where their combined performances determine the result. The inaugural tournament will take place in Colombo, Sri Lanka, from November 14 to 29, 2026.
Organisers describe the initiative as cricket’s fourth format. It aims to create new opportunities for young players while giving equal importance to male and female cricketers.
Test Twenty Introduces a Different Style of Cricket
The tournament will feature 160 young cricketers aged between 13 and 21. They will represent four continental teams, each with 20 boys and 20 girls. Unlike conventional competitions, the format combines the scores of separate boys’ and girls’ matches into one team result. Both groups must perform well to help their team win.
Each match will feature 80 overs played across two 40-over sessions within a single day.
Red-Ball Cricket Meets the White Ball
The first session will take place during daylight, using a red ball and traditional white clothing. The second session will be played under floodlights with a white ball and coloured kits.
Scores from both sessions will contribute to the same final total. This means neither group’s performance will stand alone. The toss will also have an additional role. Along with deciding which team bats first, it will determine whether the boys’ or girls’ match begins the day.
Global Talent to Compete in Colombo
Thousands of young players from five continents reportedly took part in selection trials conducted over approximately 300 days. Organisers plan to finalise the 160-player lineup through a draft later this month.
The tournament’s advisory board includes former international stars AB de Villiers, Matthew Hayden and Sir Clive Lloyd. Cricket coach Rajkumar Sharma chairs the Global Selection Committee.
The opening ceremony is scheduled for November 14, while organisers have set November 29 for the final. November 30 will serve as a reserve day.
A New Platform for Young Cricketers
Founder Gaurav Bahirwani says the format aims to build a broader pathway for emerging talent. By combining boys’ and girls’ performances, the tournament seeks to give both groups equal influence over the outcome.
The competition will be held at Colombo’s Sinhalese Sports Club. Organisers also plan live broadcasts on Sony Sports Network. Although the organisers call Test Twenty cricket’s fourth format, it remains a privately organised competition rather than an established ICC-recognised international format.
For the latest updates, visit and follow The Truth International website (www.thetruthinternational.com) and subscribe to the YouTube Channel.
