Types of Cricket Matches: Tours, Series, and Tournament Formats
International cricket is played in multiple formats — Test series, bilateral ODIs, T20 leagues, and ICC tournaments. Learn how each type is structured and scheduled.
The Main Types of International Cricket
| Type | Format | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Bilateral Test series | 2–5 Tests between two nations | India vs Australia Border-Gavaskar Trophy |
| Bilateral ODI series | 3–5 ODIs between two nations | England vs South Africa 5-match series |
| Bilateral T20I series | 2–5 T20Is between two nations | New Zealand vs West Indies 3-match T20I series |
| ICC World Cup | Multi-nation tournament — groups + knockouts | ICC T20 World Cup 2024 |
| Champions Trophy | 8-team ODI tournament by ICC | ICC Champions Trophy |
| Domestic T20 leagues | Franchise-based competitions | IPL, BBL, PSL, CPL |
What Is a Tour?
A tour is when one national cricket team visits another country to play a complete series across formats. A standard modern tour includes Test matches, ODIs, and T20Is — played over three to six weeks. The touring team plays warm-up games against domestic sides before the main international fixtures.
The ICC Future Tours Programme
The ICC Future Tours Programme (FTP) is a scheduled calendar of all bilateral international cricket — planned years in advance. Cricket boards negotiate which teams visit each other and when, then these fixtures are locked into the FTP. It ensures every Test-playing nation receives a minimum number of home and away fixtures per year.
ICC Championships and World Cups
The ICC organises a suite of major tournaments across formats. The main events are: the ICC Cricket World Cup (50-over, every four years), ICC T20 World Cup (every two years), ICC World Test Championship (two-year cycle, final between top two teams), and the ICC Champions Trophy. Each comes with its own qualifying structure and prize money.
Frequently asked questions
How many Tests make a series?
A minimum of two Tests is needed for a series, though most major bilateral series have three to five Tests. The Ashes (England vs Australia) is the only major series that regularly has five Tests.
Can any country host an ICC event?
The ICC awards hosting rights through a bidding process. Member nations (or groups of nations) bid to host events. Major events are often awarded to large markets — India hosts or co-hosts many events due to its enormous fanbase and broadcast value.
What is an 'away' series in cricket?
An away series is played in the opponent's home country. The touring team must adapt to unfamiliar pitches, conditions, crowds, and time zones. Historically, touring teams have had a lower win rate than home teams — especially in subcontinental conditions.