As Guwahati prepares to host its first-ever Test match between India and South Africa from November 22 to 26, the atmosphere in the city has already begun to shift. Cricket fans across Assam have waited decades for this moment, and now ACA Stadium is ready to step into an elite list of venues that have been part of India’s long Test cricket history.

On Thursday, BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia addressed the media and shared several important updates about the historic match. His briefing covered everything from match timings to ceremonial traditions that will be introduced for the first time in the Northeast.

The upcoming fixture is not just another entry in the cricketing calendar—it is a significant cultural moment for Assam. Saikia himself described it as “a milestone that reflects the growth of cricketing infrastructure and passion in the region.”

This article takes a closer look at all the details, the arrangements, and what fans can expect during the five-day encounter.

A Historic Moment for Guwahati and Northeast India

Hosting a Test match is a major leap forward for the Northeast, which has long contributed talented players but rarely had the chance to host major international events. While ACA Stadium has seen ODIs and T20Is in the past, Test cricket carries its own identity—longer, calmer, and rooted in traditions that date back to the 19th century.

Local cricket enthusiasts have already started calling it a once-in-a-lifetime moment. Many young players from Assam believe the match will inspire them to dream bigger. A coach from an academy in Maligaon described the Test as “a window for kids to see what real five-day cricket feels like. It’s slower, more thoughtful, and teaches patience. Watching it live will be a huge learning experience.”

The Bell Tradition Arrives in Guwahati

One of the most memorable features announced by Saikia is the introduction of the iconic Test cricket bell-ringing tradition.

A 35-kg Bell from Sarthebari

Assam’s famous bell-metal town, Sarthebari, has prepared a 35-kg ceremonial bell that will be used to mark the beginning of play each day. This tradition, common in England, South Africa, and some Indian venues, adds a charming, old-world flavor to Test cricket.

But the detail that makes Guwahati’s bell special is the craftsmanship. Artisans from Sarthebari—known for their brass and bell-metal products—have created this piece with a blend of traditional technique and modern design.

A Touch of Meghalaya

In a unique addition, a piece of Meghalaya driftwood is being artistically carved to serve as part of the bell structure. It reflects the cultural connection between the Northeastern states and adds a regional identity to the ceremony.

When asked about the idea, an ACA official said, “We wanted the opening note of each day to represent the Northeast. This bell and driftwood combination does exactly that.”

Match Timings Adjusted for Winter Sunlight

Unlike most Test matches in India that begin at 9:30 or 10 AM, this fixture will start early at 9 AM.

Why the early start?

Winters in Assam bring relatively shorter daylight hours. Since Guwahati does not have floodlights suitable for Test cricket, the organizers opted for an earlier schedule to ensure that daily overs are completed comfortably.

Saikia explained, “We do not want the game to run into poor light issues in the evening. Starting at 9 AM is the most practical choice.”

Stadium Gates Open at 7 AM

Spectators will be allowed inside the venue from 7 AM, giving them a two-hour buffer before play begins. This is expected to ease crowd movement, especially on the first day when turnout is likely to be the highest.

Local police have been coordinating with the ACA to ensure smooth traffic flow. City residents are already accustomed to match-day rush, but a Test match brings a different crowd—families, students, and cricket lovers willing to spend an entire day at the stadium.

Session Timings Announced: A Clear Structure for All Five Days

Saikia also revealed the detailed schedule for each day of the Test match:

Session Breakdown

• First Session: 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
• Tea Break: 11:00 AM – 11:20 AM
• Second Session: 11:20 AM – 1:20 PM
• Lunch Break: 1:20 PM – 2:00 PM
• Third Session: 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM

The decision to take tea before lunch is slightly unusual, but it has been done based on climatic needs and daylight constraints. Cricket fans who have followed matches in places like Dharamshala or New Zealand may recall similar adjustments.

Team Captain to Sign the Stadium’s Official Portrait

In another symbolic moment planned for this Test, the captain of the Indian team will sign the official ACA Stadium portrait.

The portrait will remain a permanent part of the stadium walls, marking the beginning of Guwahati’s Test journey. This is expected to become a long-standing tradition, with future Test captains adding their signatures during subsequent matches.

A senior ACA member shared that the initiative is meant to leave behind “a trail of memories for the next generation.” Many Indian stadiums preserve memorabilia like match balls, bats, and jerseys, but a signed portrait wall is a fresh idea for the region.

Fans Expect a Festive Atmosphere

In the days leading up to the match, the city has already started to show signs of excitement. Local shops are selling India jerseys, and several schools have planned educational tours for students to watch at least one day of play.

Rohit Sharma’s team arriving in the city earlier this week added to the buzz. Fans lined up at the airport road holding placards, some cheering, others simply wanting a glimpse of their cricketing heroes.

Local transport services have announced extended hours during the Test match days. Tea stalls near the stadium are preparing for a heavy rush, with vendors expecting long queues during the lunch interval.

Experts See a Boost in the Region’s Cricketing Future

Former Assam cricketer Gautam Dutta shared his thoughts in a local interview, saying, “A Test match is more than an event. It brings visibility, investment, and opportunities. Youngsters who watch five-day cricket learn discipline and strategy. This is a huge turning point for Northeast cricket.”

Sports journalists also believe this match could influence future BCCI decisions regarding venue allocation.

If the Test runs smoothly and receives strong attendance, Guwahati could soon be in the race for more high-profile matches.

What This Match Means for Assam

Guwahati hosting a Test is not just about cricket. It also reflects the broader development of the region—better infrastructure, improved connectivity, and growing public interest in sports.

For many fans, this match is a moment of pride. As one cricket enthusiast near Ganeshguri put it, “ODIs and T20s are fun, but a Test match shows respect. It feels like we are finally on the main stage.”

FAQs

Q1: When does the India vs South Africa Test match in Guwahati begin?

It will be played from November 22 to 26 at ACA Stadium.

Q2: What time will the match start each day?

Play will begin at 9 AM and end by 4 PM.

Q3: When can spectators enter the stadium?

Gates will open at 7 AM.

Q4: What is special about the bell-ringing tradition?

A 35-kg bell crafted in Sarthebari will be rung before play each day, supported by a piece of driftwood from Meghalaya.

Q5: Why are session timings adjusted?

Because winter days are shorter in Assam and the stadium does not support Test-match floodlight standards.