What is the difference between Test, ODI and T20 cricket?
B · Beginner · How does a match work, and how is it won? · 13 of 14How it works
| Test | ODI | T20 international | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Innings per side | Two | One | One |
| Overs per innings | No limit | 50 | 20 |
| Scheduled length | Five days, six hours of play a day | One day, two sessions of 3 hours 30 minutes | One day, two sessions of 1 hour 25 minutes |
| Overs per bowler | No limit | 10 | 4 |
| Possible results | Win, tie, draw | Win, tie, no result | Win, tie, no result |
| If scores are level | Tie | Super over | Super over |
| Free hit after a no-ball | No | Yes | Yes |
| Fielding restrictions | Leg-side limit only | Three powerplay phases | Six-over powerplay |
| Reviews per innings | Three unsuccessful | Two unsuccessful | Two unsuccessful |
- A limited-overs innings ends when its overs run out or ten batters are out, whichever comes first.
- A Test innings ends when ten batters are out, or the captain declares.
- Under the Laws, teams can agree any number of innings and any overs limit before a match.
Tricky cases
Why can a Test end in a draw but an ODI cannot?
A Test is won only by bowling the other side out (or them declaring) and scoring more. If time runs out first, it is a draw. In limited-overs cricket the innings end when the overs run out, so there is always a comparison.
How long does a T20 international last?
Two sessions of 1 hour 25 minutes, with a 15-minute break between innings: a little over three hours.
Do women's internationals use the same rules?
They have their own ICC playing conditions, which are not yet covered here.
Why the rule exists
The formats trade time for result. Tests test skill and endurance over days; limited-overs cricket guarantees a finish in one day.
Where it differs
The table above is the difference. Leagues such as the IPL set their own conditions; not covered.
From the rule book
MCC Laws of Cricket, Laws 13.1 and 13.3, 4th Edition, in force from 1 October 2026. ICC men's playing conditions, clauses 12.7, 13.6, 13.9, 21.18, 28.7 and Appendix D, October 2026. Checked 13 October 2026. Official documents: ICC playing conditions (PDF); MCC Laws of Cricket (PDF).