T20Is

Twenty20 International (T20I) is a form of cricket played between two national teams that have full international status, certified by the International Cricket Council (ICC). Each match has two innings, with a maximum of 20 overs per side. T20Is are designed to be completed in about three hours, making them the shortest recognized international format. They use a white ball, colored uniforms, and typically take place under floodlights in day-night venues. A standard starting lineup comprises 11 players per side. A bowler may deliver a maximum of four overs per innings, and there are fielding restrictions: during the first six overs only two fielders may be outside the 30-yard circle; from overs seven to 20, up to five fielders may be outside the circle.

The format was introduced by the ICC in 2005 to provide a shorter international alternative to Test and One Day International cricket. The first Twenty20 International was played on 17 February 2005 between Australia and New Zealand at Eden Park, Auckland. The game quickly grew in popularity and led to the creation of the ICC World Twenty20 (later named the ICC T20 World Cup) in 2007. The format also spurred numerous domestic Twenty20 competitions around the world, such as the Indian Premier League, Big Bash League, and others, which contributed to greater global exposure and commercial growth.

Since 2019, all matches between ICC member nations have official T20I status. Rankings for teams and players are maintained by the ICC, with results from bilateral series and tournaments contributing to the standings. In the event of a tied match, a Super Over is typically used to determine the winner, reflecting the format’s emphasis on quick, decisive results. T20Is have become a central component of modern international cricket, alongside Tests and ODIs, and have expanded opportunities for players and fans worldwide.