(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
India Adjusts Match Schedule, Tea Before Lunch for Guwahati Test
November 12, 2025
Cricket traditions are getting a tweak in Guwahati, as India and South Africa prepare for the city’s first-ever Test match at Barsapara Cricket Stadium. The BCCI has decided players will take tea before lunch due to the region’s early sunrise and fast-fading light.
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Early Start for Full Play
To ensure a complete 90-over session before dusk, the second Test will start at 9:00 am (toss at 8:30 am). The first session runs until 11:00 am with a 20-minute tea break, followed by lunch from 1:20 pm to 2:00 pm, and the final session concluding by 4:00 pm.
BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia explained, “In winters, sunrise and sunset are very early in north-east India. Starting early ensures we have full play before light fades.”
Key Players Return
India’s Rishabh Pant will make a comeback after a foot fracture, while South Africa captain Temba Bavuma rejoins after recovering from a calf injury. Bavuma missed the Pakistan tour, where Aiden Markram led South Africa to a 1-1 draw.
India’s Strong Home Record
India ranks third in the World Test Championship, with South Africa in fourth. The home team has 122 Test wins in India, trailing only Australia (262) and England (241). South Africa’s recent tours to India have been difficult, losing the previous two series 3-0, with their last series win under Hansie Cronje in 2000.
India pace bowler Mohammed Siraj said, “This series is crucial for the new WTC cycle. We are confident from our good form in England and the West Indies.”
South Africa spinner Keshav Maharaj acknowledged the challenge, saying, “There’s a real hunger to beat India here. It’s one of the toughest tours, but we see it as a great opportunity to test ourselves.”
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In summary, the Guwahati Test will see an early start, tea before lunch, and key players back in action, setting the stage for a thrilling clash in India’s northeast.
