India Face Must-Win Test Against South Africa With Pant Leading Injured Side
India confront a crucial do-or-die scenario as they take on South Africa in the second Test at Guwahati’s Barsapara Stadium on November 22. After losing the series opener by 30 runs, the hosts risk their second consecutive home series defeat unless they secure a victory.
Key Match Details
- Date: Saturday, November 22
- Venue: Barsapara Stadium, Guwahati
- Start Time: 9:00 AM IST
- TV: Star Sports Network
- Streaming: JioHotstar
Captaincy Shake-up as Gill Ruled Out
India will be without regular captain Shubman Gill, who has been sidelined due to a neck injury. Vice-captain Rishabh Pant steps up to lead the Test side for the first time in his career, facing the formidable challenge of rallying his team against an unbeaten South African unit under Temba Bavuma.
“Definitely, one-off match is not the best scenario as a captain. But at the same time, I’m really proud that BCCI has given me this opportunity. You know, whenever you’re leading your country, it’s the proudest moment,” Pant said at the pre-match press conference.
Unusual Schedule Change Due to Early Sunset
In a rare departure from traditional Test scheduling, the BCCI has approved taking tea before lunch during this match. This adjustment, typically reserved for day-night Tests, addresses Guwahati’s early sunset and rapidly fading evening light conditions.
BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia explained that the region’s unique sunrise and sunset patterns necessitated this change to prevent loss of playing time.
Session Timings
- First session: 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM
- Tea break: 11:00 AM to 11:20 AM
- Second session: 11:20 AM to 1:20 PM
- Lunch break: 1:20 PM to 2:00 PM
- Third session: 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM
Broadcast Information
Television: Star Sports Network with multi-language commentary
Live Streaming: JioHotstar platform
The match represents a critical juncture for as they seek to avoid consecutive home series defeats while adapting to unusual playing conditions and new leadership.
