New Delhi — In a tribute to the origins of Test cricket, Australia and England will play a special standalone Test match at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in 2027. The match will commemorate the 150th anniversary of the first-ever Test match, which took place between these two nations at the same venue in March 1877. Australia emerged victorious in that historic encounter, winning by 45 runs.
The announcement of this celebratory match comes as part of a broader initiative by Cricket Australia (CA) to mark the significant milestone of Test cricket. As part of these celebrations, CA has unveiled plans for the allocation of hosting rights for men's international cricket over the next seven summers, from 2024-25 to 2030-31.
According to the International Cricket Council (ICC), these hosting arrangements are the result of strategic partnerships between CA and state and territory governments. The goal is to offer fans and communities across Australia greater certainty and an enhanced experience at cricket events.
The MCG will continue its tradition of hosting the annual Boxing Day Test, while the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) will retain the New Year's match. Starting from the 2025/26 season, Adelaide Oval will host a "Christmas Test" each December, featuring a mix of day-night and traditional day Tests. Perth Stadium, meanwhile, will host the first men's Test of the summer until the 2026/27 season.
Cricket Australia's Chief Executive Officer, Nick Hockley, expressed his enthusiasm for the long-term plans, stating, "We are thrilled to confirm the hosting rights for these iconic venues, ensuring that world-class cricket will be played at the best locations across the country. The 150th anniversary match at the MCG in March 2027 will be a fitting celebration of Test cricket's rich history, and we look forward to welcoming England for this momentous occasion."
