What is a Boxing Day Test? Check History and India's Record in BGT

The Boxing Day Test is one of cricket's most celebrated traditions, blending festive cheer with fierce competition. Played annually on December 26 at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), this match has captivated fans worldwide, showcasing thrilling encounters and legendary performances. As BGT 2024 approaches, the stage is set for another historic clash.

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What is the Boxing Day Test?

The Boxing Day Test is an iconic cricketing tradition played annually on December 26 at Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). It symbolises both sporting excellence and cultural celebration, drawing massive crowds to the MCG and millions of viewers globally. However, the tradition evolved gradually over time, rather than starting as a formalised event.

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Historical Significance of the Boxing Day Test Match in Australia

The roots of the Boxing Day cricket match trace back to 1865 when a Sheffield Shield match between Victoria and New South Wales was played at the MCG during Christmas. This often included play on Boxing Day, creating early associations with cricket during the festive period.

The modern Boxing Day Test tradition began during the 1950–51 Ashes series when the fourth day of a Test coincided with Boxing Day. However, between 1953 and 1967, no Tests were held on Boxing Day.

The turning point came in the 1974–75 Ashes series when scheduling six Tests led to the Melbourne match starting on Boxing Day. By 1980, the Australian Cricket Board (now Cricket Australia) formalised the Boxing Day Test, a move supported by the advent of live television broadcasts through the Nine Network. The match became a marquee sporting event for Melbourne, reinforcing its reputation as a hub for major global sports.

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List of Boxing Day Test Matches and Results

Since 2020, the Player of the Match award has been accompanied by the Mullagh Medal, named in honour of Indigenous Australian cricketer Johnny Mullagh, adding further cultural and historical depth to the occasion. Here is the list of boxing day test matches and the results:

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The Boxing Day Test in Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024

The upcoming Boxing Day Test in BGT 2024 is set to be a highlight of the series, as India takes on Australia at the MCG. With both teams aiming to assert dominance, this match promises to deliver intense competition and unforgettable moments.

The Boxing Day Test is more than a cricket match; it’s a celebration of tradition, culture, and sportsmanship. For India, these matches have been a mix of challenges and triumphs, symbolising their growth as a cricketing powerhouse. As BGT 2024 approaches, fans eagerly await the next chapter in this storied tradition.

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India’s record in Boxing Day Test Matches

India's record in Boxing Day Tests at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) reflects a mix of resilience and challenges. Out of nine matches, India has secured two historic victories, both against Australia — a 137-run win in 2018, powered by Jasprit Bumrah's exceptional bowling, and an 8-wicket triumph in 2020, led by Ajinkya Rahane's inspiring century. Here is a list:

Despite these successes, India has faced five defeats, with notable losses in 1999, 2003, and 2007, when Australia dominated with commanding performances. The remaining two encounters, in 1985 and 2014, ended in hard-fought draws. These Boxing Day Tests highlight India's evolving strength in overseas conditions, particularly in recent years, as they have shown the ability to challenge and overcome Australia's dominance at the MCG.

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