Why does the thrill of Boxing Day Test in the cricket world start on December 26? Know the interesting history behind it

• Box of gifts and the thrill of cricket!
• What is the history of the ‘Boxing Day’ Test?
• Watch Australia dominate in Melbourne”

Boxing Day Test History: In Australia Test match played on 26th December every year Boxing Day (Boxing Day Test) is known as. The Test match, which begins on 26 December, the day after Christmas, is an important part of Australian cricket tradition, with a unique history. During Christmas, Australians are on a long holiday during which, according to Christian tradition, everyone exchanges gifts, which is inaugurated on the following day, 26 December. Hence it is also known as Boxing Day.

In 1892, the term “Boxing Day” came into cricket

In 1892, during the Australian domestic cricket season, matches were played on the day after Christmas, marking the beginning of this period. In international cricket, the first Boxing Day Test match was played in 1950 between Australia and England. With the 1974–75 Ashes series, Cricket Australia began the tradition of holding a Boxing Day Test match, the first day of which was played on 26 December. The match was played at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Since then, Boxing Day Tests have been played at this historic Melbourne ground, as its seating capacity can accommodate approximately 100,000 spectators.

Australia’s Boxing Day Test record so far impressive

The Australian team’s record in Boxing Day Tests is quite impressive. They have played 117 matches at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, out of which they have won 68 matches and lost 32 matches. Furthermore, Australia’s record at the MCG since 2000 shows that they have played 25 matches, winning 19 of them and losing only four matches, two of which were against India.

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India’s historic victory in the Boxing Day Test

Most interestingly, both of Australia’s Boxing Day Test defeats were against India. In the 2018 Boxing Day Test, under the captaincy of Virat Kohli, India achieved a historic victory, winning the Boxing Day Test for the first time at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. After the 2020 Boxing Day Test defeat in Adelaide, Team India staged a remarkable comeback in the Melbourne Boxing Day Test. Led by Ajinkya Rahane, India created history by beating Australia. Both these victories proved that even Australia are not invincible in Boxing Day Tests.

Why is the Boxing Day Test special?

The Boxing Day Test is not just about cricket but a celebration of emotions. The combination of crowds thronging the stadium during the holidays, the family atmosphere and the excitement of the last big game of the year makes it special. Cricketers consider it an honor to be part of the Boxing Day Test.

Also Read: Australia squad announced for Boxing Day Test against England, bowler returns to team after 4 years