Test Cricket

Live scores from Test matches and other first-class cricket in the feed, plus a guide to how the five-day format works.

How Test cricket works

A Test match is scheduled for five days, each of at least 90 overs split into three sessions. Both sides bat twice, and the winner is the side that scores more runs across its two innings while dismissing the opposition twice. If time runs out first, the match is drawn. A side leading by a large margin after the first innings may enforce the follow-on, making the opposition bat again immediately, and a batting side may declare its innings closed to leave time to bowl the other side out. There are no powerplays or fielding-circle restrictions and no limit on a bowler's overs, and the fielding side may take a new ball only after 80 overs.

The World Test Championship puts bilateral Test series between nine of the Test nations into a two-year league. Every Test is worth the same (12 points for a win, 6 for a tie, 4 for a draw), sides are ranked by the percentage of available points they win, and the top two meet in a one-off final. Our guides explain the follow-on and declarations and how the WTC points system works.

History

The first Test was played between Australia and England in Melbourne in 1877. Twelve nations now hold Test status, the most recent being Ireland and Afghanistan in 2018. The Ashes between England and Australia is the oldest continuing contest, and Brian Lara's 400 not out for West Indies against England in Antigua in 2004 remains the highest individual Test score.

Frequently asked questions

How many overs are bowled in a day of Test cricket?

A minimum of 90 in three sessions of roughly 30, with extra time available to make up overs lost to weather and slow play. The day ends earlier if the side batting last has won or the match is otherwise decided.

Facts on this page were last checked on 24 October 2026. If something is out of date, tell us.