MTN and Cricket South Africa have come together and have announced the new MTN40 domestic limited-overs tournament during this summer in partnership with MTN`s successful summer campaign, Ayoba!

The MTN40 sees a host of rule changes designed to make matches even more exciting than in previous seasons. 

Additionally, rain delays will see an immediate reduction in overs instead of extending the hours of play. There will be three Power Plays per innings, the first of which is compulsory during the opening 10-overs and the remaining two (of five overs each) to be taken at the behest of the batsmen at any time during the innings except between the 36^th and 40^th overs.

A first in cricket will see the ability to use all 12 players in the squad during the match. These will take the form of rolling substitutions (with the 12^th man being differentiated by an armband) with captains being able to bring on a designated batsman, fielder, or bowler when needed.

See below for the next matches.

23 Dec 09: Nashua Cape Cobras VS Bizhub Highveld Lions: Sahara Park Newlands
26 Dec 09: Chevrolet Warriors VS Bizhub Highveld Lions: St. George`s Park
27 Dec 09: Nashua Cape Cobras VS Nashua Titans: Boland Park
30 Dec 09: Nashua Cape Cobras VS Diamond Eagles: Boland Park
30 Dec 09: Chevrolet Warriors VS Nashua Titans: St. George`s Park

While MTN and Cricket SA are setting off their Domestic Cricket tournament, England and South Africa are batting it out on the field too this summer.

Englands` tour to South Africa started with their first test being played at SuperSport Park, Centurion: Pretoria on the 16 December 2009. The match ended in a draw and the man of the match was awarded to Graeme Swann.

The next test matches will be played on the following dates:

South Africa Vs South Africa Test Matches
16 December - First Test, Pretoria
26 December - Second Test, Durban
03 January - Third Test, Cape Town
14 January - Fourth Test, Johannesburg

Source:
Cricket South Africa
CricBuzz