<P> A timeless Test is a match of Test cricket played under no limitation of time, which means the match is played until one side wins or the match is tied, with theoretically no possibility of a draw . The format means that it is not possible to play defensively for a draw when the allotted time runs out, and delays due to bad weather will not prevent the match ending with a positive result . It also means that there is far less reason for a side to declare an innings, since time pressure should not affect the chances of winning the game . </P> <P> Although the format should guarantee a result, it was ultimately abandoned as it was impossible to predict with any certainty when a match would be finished, making scheduling and commercial aspects difficult . In the modern era teams often play back - to - back tests in consecutive weeks, something that would be impossible without the five - day limit . </P> <P> There were 99 timeless Tests between 1877 and 1939 . The last was the Fifth Test between England and South Africa at Durban in 1939, which was abandoned as a draw after nine days of play spread over twelve days, otherwise the England team would have missed the boat for home . This match had started on 3 March . South Africa had set a target of 696 for England to win . By the time England had to leave to catch their boat home, on 14 March, England had reached 654 for 5 (the highest ever first - class fourth innings score). This is the longest Test cricket match on record . The match had not been expected to take more than five days, but rain and rolling rejuvenated the pitch three times during the match, and it was still in good condition for batting when the match was abandoned . </P> <P> Until World War II all Tests in Australia were timeless . Only two of these matches were drawn, both against England in 1882, when the matches had to be left unfinished owing to shipping schedules . Pitches were left uncovered during matches, and in the Australian climate the well - watered prepared pitches would dry out and crack and crumble as the match progressed, usually making batting more difficult by the fourth or fifth day . The longest Test match in Australia was the Fifth Test between Australia and England in Melbourne in 1929, which lasted for eight playing days . </P>

When was the longest match of cricket played