NEW DELHI: Because of the early sunrise and sunset typical of the northeast at this time of year, the second India-South Africa Test in Guwahati will begin 30 minutes early and have the tea break scheduled before lunch to ensure maximum use of daylight and allow the full quota of overs to be completed.
While such scheduling is standard in day-night Tests, the BCCI has introduced it for a daytime match due to the rapidly diminishing light in this part of the country.
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However, the change in timings does not really matter to Indian batter Sai Sudharsan, who hopes the players will adjust to it quickly.
"I don't mind having tea before lunch, I already drink tea during lunch, so I'll probably enjoy it. Of course, it's new, but we'll get used to it. It's exciting to explore," said Sudharsan said on the JioStar show "Follow The Blues".
South Africa batter Aiden Markram said while it would be an "interesting" departure from the norm, he was not the biggest fan of the concept.
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"It's interesting. I'm not the biggest fan of it, to be honest. I think Test cricket should always start at 10 a.m. with lunch followed by tea. But those are the cards you're dealt, and you just get on with it. It'll be something different to experience, but hopefully, it doesn't become a common thing."
Proteas spinner Keshav Maharaj said the reigning World Test champions were here to compete irrespective of the changes in the routine.
"We actually heard about it (tea before lunch) recently. It's an interesting one, but you can understand the thinking behind it. Sunlight becomes a factor, so they're trying to maximise playing time.
"We respect the rules put in place, and we're here to compete and give our best as a South African unit," said Maharaj.
