The iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) is gearing up for a packed house on the opening day of the Boxing Day Test between India and Australia.
As the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 series stands tied at 1-1, the cricket fever has gripped fans Down Under, leading to unprecedented ticket sales for the fourth Test starting December 26.
Boxing Day Test 2024: All Tickets are Sold Out for Day 1
Cricket Australia announced that all available public tickets for the first day of the Boxing Day Test have been sold out. The MCG, with its massive capacity of over 100,000, is set to host a record-breaking crowd for a non-Ashes Boxing Day Test.
“All available public tickets for Day 1 of the NRMA Insurance Boxing Day Test have been sold,” Cricket Australia stated on social media. They added that a small number of additional tickets might be released on December 24 for non-members, giving last-minute buyers a final chance to secure seats.
This surge in demand follows Australia’s comeback victory in Adelaide, where they leveled the series with a convincing 10-wicket win. The prospect of an enthralling contest in Melbourne has clearly captured the imagination of cricket fans across the country.
Though Day 1 tickets are almost sold out, you can check out Day 2 and Day 3 tickets from the official Australian Cricket website, cricket.com.au.
Boxing Day Test: Attendance Records
The Boxing Day Test is set to continue the trend of record-breaking attendances seen throughout this India-Australia series. The second Test in Adelaide, a day-night affair, drew a remarkable crowd of 135,012 over just three days. This surpassed the previous five-day record of 113,009 set during the 2014-15 India tour.
Adelaide’s day one attendance of 36,225 fans shattered single-day records, with over 50,000 spectators filling the stands on each of the first two days. The pink-ball Test created an electric atmosphere that has only fueled excitement for the upcoming Melbourne clash.
Even the series opener in Perth saw impressive turnouts. The first two days at Optus Stadium broke attendance records for any Test match in the city, with 31,302 and 32,368 fans, respectively. The four-day contest drew a total of 96,463 spectators, the highest ever for a Perth Test.
Boxing Day Tradition Meets Fierce Rivalry
The Boxing Day Test holds a special place in the cricket calendar, and this year’s edition promises to be particularly memorable. With the series evenly poised, both teams have everything to play for at the MCG.
India, buoyed by their dominant 295-run victory in Perth, will look to reclaim the series lead. Australia, having bounced back strongly in Adelaide, aims to maintain their momentum on home soil. This clash of cricketing titans, set against the backdrop of MCG’s festive atmosphere, is a recipe for an unforgettable spectacle.
Boxing Day Test Is More Than Just Cricket
The Boxing Day Test is not just about the on-field action. It’s a cultural phenomenon that brings together families, friends, and cricket lovers from all walks of life. The MCG on December 26 transforms into a melting pot of excitement, tradition, and holiday cheer.
This year, the stadium is pulling out all the stops to enhance the fan experience. Cultural food offerings will feature prominently, with specialties like cheese and spinach rolls, samosas with mint chutney, chicken tikka burgers, and tandoori chicken baguettes available at various outlets.
Boxing Day Test 2024 Can Be Series Decider
After defeating India in Adelaide, Australia leveled the series by 1-1. Whoever, whether it’s India or Australia, both the Gabba and Boxing Day tests will take the series home. Their winnings also secure any of their entry in the final of the ICC Test Championship 2025.
As the cricketing world turns its attention to Melbourne, both teams are leaving no stone unturned in their preparations. The third Test in Brisbane, starting December 14, will provide crucial momentum heading into the Boxing Day clash.
India’s captain Rohit Sharma has urged his team to rally behind their bowlers, particularly after the tough outing in Adelaide. Australia, on the other hand, faces selection dilemmas with the potential return of key players from injury.
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Conclusion: Boxing Day Test 2024 Will Start On December 26
The Boxing Day Test 2024 is shaping up to be a landmark event in the storied India-Australia rivalry. Record ticket sales, the prospect of a sellout crowd, and the series’ competitive balance all point to an electrifying atmosphere at the MCG.
As cricket fans count down the days to December 26, the anticipation continues to build. Whether you’re lucky enough to have a ticket or plan to join the millions watching from home, one thing is certain – the 2024 Boxing Day Test will be a cricket spectacle for the ages.
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