A new chapter in Indian cricket is about to unfold as Guwahati set to host its first-ever Test match, marking a monumental moment for Assam and the entire Northeast region. The upcoming India vs South Africa clash, scheduled from November 22 to 26, 2025, will not only be historic for the venue but also for its experimental “tea before lunch” format — a first in Test cricket’s long-standing history.
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A Landmark Event in Assam’s Cricketing Journey
As Guwahati set to host its first-ever Test match, Barsapara Cricket Stadium will finally join the elite list of India’s Test venues. The fixture will begin at 9:00 AM IST daily, with a rearranged session structure designed to suit Guwahati’s early sunsets. The first session will run from 9:00 to 11:00 AM, followed by a 20-minute tea break, then a second session till 1:20 PM, and finally a 40-minute lunch interval before play resumes from 2:00 to 4:00 PM.
This unique timing adjustment was introduced to combat limited daylight — an issue typical of Northeast India during winter. As Guwahati set to host its first-ever Test match, the BCCI’s decision to switch the order of breaks aims to ensure uninterrupted play and reduce delays caused by poor light.
A First in Test Cricket History
According to BCCI officials, this “tea before lunch” experiment was necessary to make full use of playing hours. They explained that Guwahati set to host its first-ever Test match required special consideration due to local conditions, making it the perfect testing ground for such an innovation.
Traditionally, Test matches follow a lunch-then-tea structure, but this reversal could redefine match scheduling in venues with similar daylight constraints. As Guwahati set to host its first-ever Test match, all eyes will be on how players, broadcasters, and fans react to this unique change.
Beyond the scheduling twist, Guwahati set to host its first-ever Test match carries immense pride for local fans who have long awaited this moment. The historic encounter promises not only top-class cricket but also an experiment that could influence future Test scheduling worldwide. With India facing South Africa in this landmark event, Guwahati set to host its first-ever Test match that’s truly one for the history books.
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