10 days, 1,981 runs, no winner: In the longest-ever Test, England were 42 runs from victory vs South Africa when a ship to home forced a draw

But in 1939, England and South Africa played a Test with no time limit. The most extraordinary example came in Durban, South Africa, in March 1939. It became known as the “Timeless Test” and remains the longest Test match ever played.England were touring South Africa for a five-Test series. The game began at Kingsmead on 3 March 1939, with South Africa choosing to bat.On a pitch that offered little assistance to the bowlers, South Africa batted for almost three days and made 530. 10 days, 1,981 runs and no winner The match took place across 12 calendar days, with 10 days of actual play.

Source: Times of India September 11, 2026 10:50 UTC