Post by : Maya Rahman

The upcoming Test match between India and South Africa in Guwahati will introduce an unusual shift in cricket tradition, with tea scheduled before lunch. This notable change is due to the early sunrise and sunset times in northeastern India, marking a historic occasion as Barsapara Cricket Stadium prepares to host its first-ever Test match starting November 22.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) implemented this schedule change considering the region's natural light conditions. In the winter months, the sun rises and sets significantly earlier in this part of the country. Consequently, daylight diminishes by 4 PM, prompting officials to initiate play earlier and alter the break timings.

Devajit Saikia, BCCI secretary and Guwahati native, emphasized the practical nature of this adjustment. He noted in an interview with ESPNcricinfo, "In winter, daylight recedes too early here in northeast India. By 4 PM, visibility is poor, hence we decided on a 9 AM start to maximize daylight opportunities." His remarks demonstrate how local weather conditions have guided the revised play schedule.

The Guwahati Test will kick off half an hour earlier than the standard red-ball match timings across India. In contrast to the first Test in Kolkata, slated for November 14 to 18 with a 9:30 AM start, Guwahati will begin with the toss at 8:30 AM and play at 9:00 AM. This change means players can fully utilize available daylight and conclude the match safely before nightfall.

As per the updated schedule, the first session will last until 11:00 AM, followed by a 20-minute tea break, with lunch set between 1:20 PM and 2:00 PM. The final session will conclude by 4:00 PM, acknowledging the rapid loss of daylight in the region. This reversal of the traditional lunch-before-tea structure reflects the local requirements during the Test match.

Guwahati is buzzing with excitement as it prepares for its inaugural Test match. Cricket enthusiasts in Assam have long anticipated this event. While the Barsapara Cricket Stadium has hosted international white-ball fixtures, this match marks its first red-ball encounter, complemented by modern amenities and a dedicated local fanbase.

Key players are returning for this Test series, adding to its significance. For India, wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant will make his much-anticipated return post-recovery from a foot fracture, bringing vitality to the middle order. Meanwhile, South Africa's captain Temba Bavuma, healing from a calf injury, will bolster their batting depth and leadership.

This two-match series is crucial for both teams in the World Test Championship (WTC) standings, with India currently ranked third and South Africa at number four. The outcomes can influence their positions, making this contest vital for both sides seeking to cement their place for the WTC final.

Guwahati, located in northeast India, experiences distinct daylight variations compared to larger cities like Mumbai or Delhi, with winter sunrises as early as 5:30 AM and sunsets before 5:00 PM. These unique conditions play a key role in the BCCI's timing adjustments, ensuring optimal playing conditions without falling into poor visibility.

With the distinct timing changes and the return of star players, the Guwahati Test is set to be an unforgettable affair. Fans can look forward to witnessing elite cricket while also observing a rare scheduling adaptation that reflects the sport's ability to align with local circumstances. As Guwahati enters the realm of Indian Test venues, it signifies an important milestone in its cricketing heritage.

#Sports News