A tea break is a short break of 20 minutes taken during Test matches. Each day of a Test match consists of 90 overs which is roughly more than six hours on the field. Tea break is a short break which allows the players to have a break. It has a huge significance in the game while also protecting the tradition.

What is Tea Break in Test cricket ?

Tea break is a tradition that started from England where drinking tea was a cultural thing. As Test matches became more popular in the 19th century, tea time became a formal part of the game. This short break allowed players to rest, especially during long and grueling matches that tested their endurance and stamina.

The concept of Tea break helped players gather their thoughts and strategies while also resting their bodies for a short period of time. Since then the tradition has continued and Tea Break is a crucial aspect of the game even in the modern day.

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How much time is Tea Break in Test Cricket?

A Test match consists of 5 days and each day the Tea break is taken after the end of the second session. The day starts off with the first session after which the players head for a lunch break and come back for the second session. After the end of that the players go for a Tea break. The duration of tea break in Test cricket is 20 minutes.

Breakdown of Tea break

  • First Session - 2 hours

  • Lunch Break - 40 minutes

  • Second Session - 2 hours

  • Tea Break- 20 minutes

  • Third Session - 2 hours

What cricket formats have a tea break ?

A Tea Break is only there in Test cricket as the duration of the game is long. When it comes to ODI and T20I cricket there are no tea breaks.

Importance of Tea Break in Test cricket?

  • Helps players rest their bodies

  • Players can strategise in the break and come back stronger.

  • Players can rejuvenate themselves and grab a cup of tea or have a small snack.

Difference in Tea Break timings

There can be slight adjustments to the tea break when there are weather interruptions.

In a traditional Red Ball Test match, the Tea Break is the second break which comes after the end of the second session.

When it comes to Pink Ball Cricket (Day night Test) the break after the first session is the Tea Break and the second break is called Dinner. This is because the pink ball Test starts in the afternoon so the tea break is scheduled after the first session.