Guwahati Test Adjusts Play Schedule for Unique Daylight Conditions

Post by : Mara Rahim

The upcoming Test match between India and South Africa in Guwahati is set to break from cricketing norms with a significant change in its schedule. In a rare twist, players will enjoy tea before lunch throughout the game, a decision made to accommodate the early sunrise and sunset typical of northeast India. This historic Test will be held at Barsapara Cricket Stadium, marking its debut in hosting such a match starting November 22.

Understanding the local daylight constraints, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has opted for this adjustment. In the winter months, the sun rises considerably earlier and sets much sooner in the northeastern region than in other parts of the country. Early sunset kicks in around 4 pm, making extended play past this hour impractical. Hence, officials determined to start the game earlier while modifying the breaks accordingly.

Devajit Saikia, the BCCI secretary and a Guwahati native, emphasized that the adjustment aligns with practical needs. Discussing the shift in schedule, he mentioned to ESPNcricinfo, “Winters bring early sunrises and sunsets here in northeast India. By 4 pm, daylight is gone, making play impossible. Therefore, we've decided to commence at 9 am to maximize daylight hours.” His remarks highlight the local climate's direct influence on the match’s schedule.

The Guwahati Test will begin half an hour earlier than the standard timing set for red-ball matches in India. While the first Test in Kolkata kicks off at 9:30 am from November 14 to 18, Guwahati's toss will happen at 8:30 am, with play commencing promptly at 9:00 am. This strategic modification will allow players to play optimally within daylight and wrap up the game before dusk.

The newly structured schedule dictates that the first session runs until 11:00 am, followed by a 20-minute tea break. Lunch will then take place between 1:20 pm and 2:00 pm. The concluding session will finish by 4:00 pm, catering to the rapid onset of darkness in the region. This unusual break order, with tea preceding lunch, is tailored for Guwahati's specific conditions.

Excitement is palpable in Guwahati as the city prepares for its inaugural Test match. Cricket enthusiasts in Assam have eagerly awaited this event. While Barsapara Cricket Stadium has hosted international white-ball contests, this will be its first clash featuring red-ball cricket. Equipped with state-of-the-art amenities, the stadium is set to provide a phenomenal experience for fans.

Both teams will see key players return for this pivotal Test series. India will welcome back wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant, following a recovery from his foot injury, bringing his dynamic batting to reinforce the middle order. South Africa's captain, Temba Bavuma, will also return to the field after overcoming a calf injury, strengthening their batting unit.

This two-match series holds significance in the World Test Championship (WTC), with India currently positioned third and South Africa sitting fourth. Each game's outcome is crucial for their standings, and both teams are poised to aim for strong performances to improve their chances of securing a final spot.

Situated in northeastern India, Guwahati observes daylight hours that diverge from regions like Mumbai or Delhi, with winter sunrises as early as 5:30 am and sunsets before 5:00 pm. This short daylight duration is pivotal to the BCCI’s decision to adjust match timings and break schedules, optimizing visibility for players during play hours.

With these timing changes and the return of star players, the Guwahati Test is anticipated to be a remarkable event. Fans can look forward to a unique cricket experience, showcasing how the sport can evolve in response to local nuances. As Guwahati steps into the spotlight as one of India's Test venues, it marks a momentous occasion in its cricket history.