In Guwahati, cricket traditions are changing as India and South Africa players will have tea before lunch in the second Test due to the region’s early sunrise and sunset.
The BCCI has made the unusual decision to reverse the usual refreshment order for the second Test starting on November 22, marking Guwahati’s debut Test at Barsapara Cricket Stadium.
This change was prompted by the early sunrise and diminishing light in northeast India.
“It’s a practical decision,” said BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia, a native of Guwahati, to ESPNcricinfo.
“In winter, sunrise and sunset occur very early here in northeast India. By 4 pm, the light fades, limiting play. Hence, we’ve decided to start early, with play beginning at 9 am.”
SECOND TEST TO START AT 0900
The match will start 30 minutes earlier than usual for red-ball Tests in India.
The first Test in Kolkata from November 14-18 starts at 0930 local time, but the revised schedule for the second Test will see the toss at 0830 am and a 0900 start.
The first session will last until 11 am with a 20-minute tea break. Lunch will be from 1320 to 1400, and the final session will end by 1600.
The teams will welcome key players, with Indian wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant returning from a foot fracture and South Africa’s captain Temba Bavuma back from a calf injury.
India is third in the World Test Championship while defending champions South Africa are fourth.
