The T10 cricket format became popular after the Abu Dhabi T10 League started in 2017, which was approved by the ICC (International Cricket Council). People enjoy this format because it is short, fast, and full of entertainment. The quick matches make it exciting to watch and easy to fit into busy schedules.
There have even been talks about including T10 cricket in the Olympics, as its short duration is perfect for such events. Many countries have now started their own T10 tournaments, including the West Indies, Sri Lanka, and Zimbabwe.
Some famous leagues include the Abu Dhabi T10 League, the European Cricket League, and the Guyana T10 Blast.
Essential Rules for T10 Cricket
Here are some rules you should know to enjoy T10 tournaments without confusion:
- Each team plays one innings, limited to a maximum of 10 overs (60 legal balls).
- Each bowler can bowl a maximum of 2 overs.
- The batting side has a 3-over Powerplay at the beginning of the innings with fielding restrictions to encourage aggressive batting.
- The first 3 overs of each innings are the Powerplay. Only 2 fielders are allowed outside the 30-yard circle during this time.
- The innings must be completed within about 40 minutes; each team will get 5 more extra minutes to complete the match.
- If the team fielding first is slow in bowling overs beyond the allotted time, penalty runs (usually 6 runs per over missed) are added to the batting team’s total.
- If a match ends in a tie, a Super Over is played. If both teams complete their allotted overs, the team with more runs wins. If the scores are tied, a Golden Ball will decide the winner.
- No bouncers are allowed in the first instance; repeated bouncers or beamers can lead to bowler suspension for the match.
- There is usually a 10-minute break between the two innings. There is no official allowance for drinks breaks except in cases of injury or health issues.
Format of T10 Cricket
Each match lasts about 90 minutes, with both teams getting an inning of 10 overs each. All players in the team get a chance to bat and try to score runs quickly. Each bowler can bowl a maximum of 2 overs.
The first 3 overs are called the Powerplay, where fielding restrictions allow batters to play more aggressively. The first team bats and sets a target, and the second team tries to chase it within 10 overs. If the second team scores more runs than the target, they win; if not, the first team wins.
With just 10 overs per side, every ball counts, and the excitement stays high from start to finish. The format’s short duration, easy-to-follow rules, and explosive gameplay make it ideal for today’s busy fans and players alike.
Whether it’s the international leagues or local tournaments like the ISPL in India, T10 cricket continues to grow in popularity worldwide. It perfectly blends entertainment with competition, proving that even in a shorter format, cricket can deliver big moments and unforgettable excitement.
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Conclusion: Enjoy A Cricket Match in 90 Minutes
T10 cricket is a fun and fast version of the game that everyone enjoys. With only 10 overs per team, the matches finish in just 90 minutes. Because of its short time and simple rules, even busy people can enjoy watching it. T10 cricket is growing in many countries, and fans love its thrilling style through multiple tournaments.
