Test Nations and Their First Test Dates: From 1877 to Afghanistan in 2018
A list of the twelve Test-playing nations with the date of each side’s first Test match, from England and Australia in 1877 to Afghanistan in 2018.
Test cricket has grown from a single match between two teams in 1877 to twelve full members. The table lists each nation’s first Test and its opponent, as of 2024. Any nation to be admitted after 2024 is not covered.
| Nation | First Test date | Opponent | Venue |
|---|---|---|---|
| England | 15 March 1877 | Australia | Melbourne |
| Australia | 15 March 1877 | England | Melbourne |
| South Africa | 12 March 1889 | England | Port Elizabeth |
| West Indies | 23 June 1928 | England | Lord’s |
| New Zealand | 10 January 1930 | England | Christchurch |
| India | 25 June 1932 | England | Lord’s |
| Pakistan | 16 October 1952 | India | Delhi |
| Sri Lanka | 17 February 1982 | England | Colombo |
| Zimbabwe | 18 October 1992 | India | Harare |
| Bangladesh | 10 November 2000 | India | Dhaka |
| Ireland | 11 May 2018 | Pakistan | Malahide |
| Afghanistan | 14 June 2018 | India | Bengaluru |
The first Test
The first Test match was played between England and Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground in March 1877. Australia won it by 45 runs.
Recent additions
Ireland and Afghanistan were both granted Full Member status in 2017 and played their first Tests in 2018, within a few weeks of each other.
A note on Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe played their first Test in 1992 and later stepped back from the format for several years before returning.
Frequently asked questions
When was the first Test match played?
On 15 March 1877 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, between England and Australia.
Which two nations most recently played their first Tests?
Ireland and Afghanistan, both in 2018.
How many Test nations are listed?
Twelve, as of 2024.