In an unprecedented move in the history of Test cricket, the upcoming second Test match India vs South Africa series A unique break schedule will be introduced at the Barsapara Stadium in Guwahati. For the first time, the traditional order of lunch before tea will be reversed, with tea served before lunch on match days.
New schedule announced for India vs South Africa 2nd Test in Guwahati
This historical variation in timing is mainly due to earlier sunrise and sunset times in the northeastern region of India. This decision was taken jointly by Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) And cricket south africa To maximize playing time in local conditions. The match will start at 9 am, the first session will run from 9 am to 11 am. After this there will be a tea break from 11 am to 11:20 am.
The second session of the day will run from 11:20 am to 1:20 pm, followed by a lunch break from 1:20 pm to 2 pm. The final session will be played from 2 pm to 4 pm. Traditionally, Test matches in India start at 9:30 am, with lunch from 11:30 am to 12:10 pm and tea at around 2:10 pm, with the final session lasting until 4:30 pm or later. However, the early sunset and sunrise in Guwahati, which is characteristic of the northerly longitude, necessitates this adjustment to save time and allow additional playing time on the field.
Also read: IPL 2026: KKR breaks ties with Chandrakant Pandit; appoints new head coach
Reason behind change in IND vs SA 2nd test
This schedule also aligns with BCCI’s current practice ranji trophy The matches were held in Guwahati, where tea is taken before lunch due to similar climate and daylight. As The Indian Express reports, this changed timing is a thoughtful departure from long-standing cricket tradition to accommodate local daylight restrictions and ensure that daytime play is not compromised. Thus, the first Test match in Guwahati will make cricket history by rearranging the breaks and ensuring that teams get maximum playing time, indicating the board’s friendly approach to international Test scheduling.
The second Test will be played from 22 to 26 November at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium, marking the debut of Guwahati as a Test cricket venue. This change highlights the flexibility that cricket boards now consider necessary to maintain the quality and quantity of play across different geographical locations. Fans and cricket lovers are looking forward to witnessing this historic first as India will host South Africa in a Test match, breaking the traditional tradition of having lunch before tea, marking a new chapter in the history of Test cricket.
Overall, the new schedule not only represents a rare break from tradition, but is also a practical solution in line with environmental factors, approved by both the BCCI and Cricket South Africa, ensuring a smooth and competitive competition in unique conditions.
Also read: List of players with most T20I duck dismissals for Afghanistan, ft Mohammad Nabi
