The second Test between India and South Africa at Barsapara Stadium in Guwahati is set to face an unusual challenge even before the first ball is bowled – an early and rapidly fading sunset. The stadium, hosting its first men’s Test, is witnessing daylight disappear much earlier than most other venues in the country, forcing officials to adjust the traditional schedule to make the most of available light.
To cope with the early sunset, match authorities have advanced the start time to 9:00 am instead of the usual 9:30 am. In a rare move for a Test match in India, tea will be taken before lunch, with the opening session running from 9:00 to 11:00 am followed by a 20-minute tea break. The second session goes from 11:20 am to 1:20 pm, lunch from 1:20 to 2:00 pm, and the final session from 2:00 to 4:00 pm. Such adjustments are necessary because Guwahati, located around 90°E longitude, experiences sunrise and sunset significantly earlier than cities like Delhi or Mumbai, despite following Indian Standard Time.
Players have reacted differently to the unusual schedule. India’s Sai Sudharsan said he is comfortable with tea before lunch and is looking forward to playing. South Africa spinner Keshav Maharaj appreciated the logic behind the change, while batter Aiden Markram preferred the traditional routine but accepted the adjustment. 
Beyond the light challenge, India faces a bigger task – recovering from a 30-run defeat in Kolkata. The home team was bowled out for 93 while chasing 124 in the first Test, exposing ongoing issues on turning tracks. With captain Shubman Gill recovering from a neck injury, vice-captain Rishabh Pant may lead the side, and there is a possibility of Sai Sudharsan being included in the XI.
