Amajor update has emerged regarding the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2027, with the venue for one of the 5-Tests potentially being changed.
India and Australia are scheduled to play a 5-match Test series from January to February 2027 as part of the ICC World Test Championship cycle.
According to a report by Dainik Jagran, the 4th Test, currently scheduled to be played in Ranchi from February 19, could be shifted to another venue. Importantly, the match date is expected to remain unchanged if the venue is changed.
Why could the Ranchi Test be shifted?
The reported reason behind the possible change is the early sunset in Ranchi during January and February. With daylight fading relatively early, there could be concerns over lost playing time during the Test.
The report claims that the team management has raised the issue with the BCCI, with the aim of maximising playing time during all 5 matches.
In Test cricket, reduced daylight can make it difficult to complete the scheduled 90 overs in a day, particularly when matches extend into the evening session.
Visakhapatnam, Hyderabad and Rajkot in contention
If the Ranchi Test is moved, Visakhapatnam, Hyderabad or Rajkot could reportedly be considered as alternative venues.
The current schedule has Nagpur hosting the first Test, Chennai the second, Guwahati the third, Ranchi the fourth and Ahmedabad the fifth and final Test. Any change would therefore affect only the venue of the fourth match, based on the current reports.
Guwahati Test start time could also change
There could also be a minor adjustment to the start time of the Guwahati Test. The match is expected to remain in Guwahati, but the BCCI could consider an earlier start to make better use of the available daylight. A start around 30 minutes earlier than the usual Test schedule is reportedly being considered.
BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia is from Assam, but the venue itself is part of the current schedule, and the reported adjustment would be aimed at maximising playing time rather than changing the location.
Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2027 Schedule
| Test | Venue | Date |
|---|---|---|
| 1st Test | Nagpur | January 2027 |
| 2nd Test | Chennai | January-February 2027 |
| 3rd Test | Guwahati | February 2027 |
| 4th Test | Ranchi | February 19, 2027 |
| 5th Test | Ahmedabad | February 2027 |