Overview
- New Delhi was dropped because of air pollution, so the opener is in Kolkata with the second Test in Guwahati, which will stage men’s Test cricket for the first time at Barsapara Stadium.
- The BCCI has reset Guwahati’s playing hours to 9 a.m.–4 p.m. local time with tea before lunch to make better use of daylight.
- Captain Shubman Gill flagged a call between a third seamer and an extra spinner, saying spinners usually decide Tests in India even as early moisture and reverse swing could bring the quicks into play.
- India confirmed Rishabh Pant’s return and omitted Mohammed Shami, a decision Gill described as tough while backing Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj and Akash Deep.
- Temba Bavuma challenged South Africa to perform like reigning champions, with local officials assuring Eden Gardens will not be a rank turner; separately, the BCCI has asked Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli to play domestic one-day games and Rohit has informed the MCA of possible participation.