Twenty20

Twenty20 (T20) is a shortened format of cricket. It is one of three main formats recognized by the International Cricket Council (ICC), alongside Test matches and One Day Internationals (ODIs). Twenty20 gets its name from the fact that each innings is limited to a maximum of 20 overs (120 legal balls) per side, with the aim of completing a match in approximately three hours.

The format was originally conceived by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) in 2003 as a way to boost dwindling crowds and generate more excitement for the sport. The first official Twenty20 matches were played in England on 13 June 2003.

Key characteristics of Twenty20 cricket include:

• Limited Overs: Each team bats for a maximum of 20 overs.
• Fast-Paced: The shorter format leads to quicker scoring and more aggressive batting.
• Powerplays: Designated periods early in the innings where fielding restrictions are in place to encourage aggressive stroke play.
• Aggressive Fielding: Emphasis on athleticism and direct hits from the outfield to run batsmen out.
• Slower Bowlers Emerge: Bowlers using slower balls and variations in pace become increasingly effective.

The format has become immensely popular worldwide, leading to the creation of numerous domestic Twenty20 leagues, such as the Indian Premier League (IPL), the Big Bash League (BBL) in Australia, the Pakistan Super League (PSL), and the Caribbean Premier League (CPL). The ICC also organizes the ICC Men's T20 World Cup, a biennial international tournament contested by national teams.

Twenty20 cricket has significantly impacted the sport, drawing new audiences, injecting financial resources, and influencing the strategies and tactics employed in all forms of cricket.