Different Formats

Tests

Test Match (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)

Test cricket is the traditional form of the game, which has been played since 1877 and now settled in a five-day format which comprises two innings each. It is considered the pinnacle form because it tests teams over a longer period of time. Teams need to exhibit endurance, technique and temperament in different conditions to do well in this format.

One Day Internationals (ODIs)

ODI Game (Creator: ISHARA S. KODIKARA | Credit: AFP)

One Day Internationals, also known as ODIs, are a pacier format which started in 1971 but gained popularity in the 1980s. These are one-innings matches of 50 overs per side, in which teams approach the game with a blend of technique, speed and skill. The ICC’s pinnacle event, the ICC Cricket World Cup, is contested every four years in this format.

Twenty20s (T20s)

A T20 game.

Twenty20 Internationals are the newest, shortest and fastest form of the game. This format of 20 overs per side has brought in new audiences since its advent in 2005 and also triggered new skill sets and innovations. A Twenty20 International match is usually competed in three hours and with huge hitting, skillful bowling and amazing fielding it has been hugely popular with fans right around the world.