| The concept of twenty20 cricket was introduced in 2003 by the England and Wales Cricket Board. Twenty20 cricket started to regain audience interest in England’s domestic cricket. The ECB launched the Twenty20 Cup which was a championship played between England’s county teams. Australia played their first twenty20 match on January 12, 2005 at the WACA which attracted a total of 20,700 spectators. Australia and New Zealand were the first two teams to feature in an international twenty20 match. This match was played on February 17, 2005 which Australia won easily. It was a fun and light – hearted match played in more humorous than competitive manner.
The first Twenty20 international in England was played between England and Australia at the Rose Bowl in Hampshire on the 13 June 2005. Twenty20’s popularity led the International Cricket Council (ICC) to design the twenty20 World Cup. It was hosted by South Africa in 2007 where India became the first Twenty20 champions defeating Pakistan in the final. MS Dhoni led his young brigade to the coveted world title.
Twenty20 cricket’s popularity made way for a number of international leagues. First to come out was the rebel Indian Cricket League which was a breakaway from the BCCI. It is still to gain ICC’s recognition. In reply, the BCCI announced its own version of the twenty20 league, the Indian Premier League. It consists of 8 teams owned by corporate houses, businessmen and even actors. Shane Warne-led Rajasthan Royals won the inaugural season of the Indian Premier League.
After IPL’s success, more such twenty20 leagues are being planned. The BCCI has also announced a Champions League where domestic twenty20 champions from various countries will participate in. England billionaire Stanford has also announced a multi-million dollar twenty20 match.
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