Guwahati, India – In an unprecedented move, the second Test match between India and South Africa, beginning November 22nd in Guwahati, will see a reversal of the traditional tea and lunch break timings due to the region’s unique daylight hours. Play at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium will commence at 9:00 am local time, with a 20-minute tea break scheduled for 11:00 am, followed by lunch between 1:20 pm and 2:00 pm.
The decision, announced by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), is a practical response to the early sunrise and rapid sunset experienced in northeast India during the winter months. “It is indeed a practical decision,” explained BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia to ESPNcricinfo. “In winter, sunrise and sunset are very early here in northeast India. By 4pm the daylight recedes and you can’t play much after. Because of that we have decided to start early, so play will start at 9am.”
this represents a departure from the usual 9:30 am start time for red-ball Tests in India, as seen in the first Test in Kolkata from November 14-18. The toss for the Guwahati Test will be held at 8:30 am.
Both teams will welcome back key players: Indian wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant, returning from a foot fracture, and South African captain Temba Bavuma, recovered from a calf injury.India currently holds third place in the World Test Championship standings, while South Africa is fourth.
Reuters