Test cricket is played over 5 days with unlimited overs per innings. Each team bats twice. 90 overs minimum per day.
Details
Test cricket is the oldest and most traditional format. Each match is played over a maximum of 5 days, with each day consisting of 3 sessions of approximately 2 hours each (morning, afternoon, and evening). Each team bats twice and bowls twice. A minimum of 90 overs must be bowled per day.
Play typically starts at 10:00 or 10:30 AM local time and finishes by 6:00 PM. If overs are lost during the day (due to rain, bad light, or slow over rates), the playing time can be extended by up to 30 minutes.
There are scheduled breaks for lunch (40 minutes) and tea (20 minutes). Drinks breaks are taken every hour. If a result is possible, the tea break can be taken early or delayed.
Historical Evolution
Test cricket began in 1877 with a match between Australia and England at the MCG. Initially, Tests had no fixed duration — they were 'timeless Tests' that continued until one team won. The longest Test lasted 12 days (England vs South Africa, 1939). Five-day Tests became standard after World War II.
The ICC has considered reducing Tests to 4 days to reduce costs and scheduling pressure, but the proposal has been shelved after player and fan opposition.
Current Rule
5-day matches, 90 overs per day minimum, 3 sessions, 2 innings per team. WTC points awarded for results. Over-rate penalties apply.