The Timeless Test (Durban, 1939)

A lot of test matches in the prewar period were played to a finish without any time limit. The last ever timeless Test was the 5th Test between England and South Africa.

This Test was abandoned as a draw after 10 days of play spread over 11 days because otherwise the England team would have missed the boat for home which was due to leave.

With World War II impending the team did not want to risk missing trip. South Africa had set a target of 696 for England to win. By the time England had to leave they reached 654 for 5 and was well on their way to a win.

Durban 5th Test Mar 1939.