The highly anticipated second Test match between India and South Africa is set to take place at Guwahati’s Barsapara Cricket Stadium, starting on November 22. This match, marking Guwahati's Test debut, will feature revised timings and a unique session schedule to accommodate the region's early sunset. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has decided to begin play 30 minutes earlier than usual to make the most of daylight.
The schedule for this Test is notably different from traditional formats, as it will incorporate a new sequence of breaks. The toss will occur at 8:30 AM IST, with the first session beginning at 9:00 AM and lasting until 11:00 AM. Following this, a 20-minute tea break will take place before the second session resumes from 11:20 AM to 1:20 PM. The lunch interval is scheduled for 1:20 PM to 2:00 PM, with the final session concluding by 4:00 PM.
These adjustments are made especially for the unique environment of Guwahati, where the sun sets relatively early. While this marks the first Test match to be held in this venue, it has already hosted various significant events, including the recent Women’s ODI World Cup and IPL fixtures.
The inaugural Test of the series is scheduled at the iconic Eden Gardens in Kolkata from November 14 to 18. Historically, India and South Africa have faced off in 17 Test series since South Africa's reintroduction to international cricket in 1992. In these encounters, South Africa has secured the victory in eight series, while India has won five, with four series ending in draws. Notably, South Africa has performed well at home, winning seven out of nine series against India. Conversely, India has exhibited dominance at home, winning five out of eight series.
As both teams gear up for this exciting clash, attention will also be on the performance of key players like Shubman Gill, who is under significant expectations given his pivotal role in India's squad at a young age of 25. With this historic Test series unfolding, cricket fans are eager to witness the dynamics and outcomes of this high-stakes competition between two formidable teams.