How Many Days Did the Longest Test Match Last?
Test cricket, often referred to as the purest and most enduring form of the game, has witnessed many incredible contests throughout its storied history. But none quite compare to the sheer length and drama of the longest Test match ever played, a match so extensive it ultimately ended without a result despite 10 days of play. So, how many days did the longest Test match last? Let’s explore this fascinating piece of cricketing history.
The Record-Breaking Match
The longest Test match ever played lasted 10 days, excluding a rest day, bringing the total duration on the calendar to 12 days. This extraordinary encounter took place between England and South Africa in Durban from March 3 to March 14, 1939. The game was famously dubbed the “Timeless Test” because, unlike standard modern Test matches which are limited to five days, this game had no time restriction — it was supposed to continue until one team won.
Match Summary:
- Teams: England vs South Africa
- Venue: Kingsmead, Durban
- Dates: March 3–14, 1939
- Total Days Played: 10 (March 12 was a rest day)
- Result: Draw – due to England needing to catch their boat home
Why Was It So Long?
The timeless format aimed to produce an outright result — no draws due to time constraints. But this match turned out to be a perfect storm of endurance, patience, and tactical deadlock. South Africa batted first and posted a formidable total of 530. England responded with 316, and following on, managed 654/5 in their second innings.
The pitch remained playable, the weather held, and both teams fought tooth and nail. But after 10 days of exhausting cricket, with England needing just 42 more runs to win, time ran out — not because of the rules, but because the English team had a ship to catch back home. With no other option, the match was abandoned.
Legacy of the Timeless Test
This historic Test has since become a legendary tale in cricket folklore. It remains:
- The longest Test match by playing days
- A reminder of the challenges of travel logistics in the pre-air travel era
- The final nail in the coffin for the timeless format
After this match, cricket authorities moved away from timeless Tests, and all subsequent Tests were played within fixed time limits, typically five days.
Conclusion
The longest Test match in cricket history lasted 10 playing days over a 12-day period, an unmatched marathon in the world of sport. While the game ended in a draw, it etched itself permanently into the annals of cricket history — a testament to the endurance of players and the unique drama that only Test cricket can provide.
FAQs About the Longest Test Match
How many days did the longest Test match last?
A: The match lasted 10 days of actual play, spanning 12 calendar days including a rest day and a washout.
Which teams played the longest Test match?
A: England and South Africa.
Where was it played?
A: Kingsmead Stadium in Durban, South Africa.
Why was it called a “Timeless Test”?
A: Because there was no scheduled end date — the match would continue until one team won.
Why did it end in a draw if it was timeless?
A: England had to abandon the match to catch their ship home, so the game was called off.
How close was the match to getting a result?
A: England needed just 42 more runs to win when the match was halted.
Is this format still used today?
A: No. The timeless format was discontinued after 1939 due to practical challenges and the rise of fixed-duration Tests.