- Published:
- Tuesday 26 December 2023
This year’s Boxing Day Test is set to be a battle of wills as current world test champions Australia take on Pakistan in the second of a three-test series at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground, thanks to the Allan Labor Government.
Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos today joined cricket fans at one of the biggest days on the MCG calendar, with the iconic match capping off a huge year of major events in Victoria as the state reaffirmed its position as a global destination for visitors from across the country and around the globe.
The Boxing Day Test is a Victorian institution and has been a highlight of the summer of cricket every year since 1980, with thousands of cricket fans on the edge of their seat at the MCG.
Pakistan will provide a tough opponent for the Aussies, who are looking to secure a series victory by claiming this second test. The Australians will be looking to repeat the result of their last Boxing Day match against Pakistan in 2016 at the ‘G when the homegrown heroes took out the win.
Led by captain Shan Masood, Pakistan will be up against Australian cricketing superstars like captain Pat Cummins, middle-order star Travis Head and opener Usman Khawaja.
Last year, 64,876 cricket fans got in on the action on Boxing Day at the ‘G, with a total of 155,714 across the four days of competition.
The match continues Victoria’s huge summer of cricket with an upcoming one-day international match against the West Indies and men’s Big Bash heating up the MCG and Marvel Stadium.
Major events like the Boxing Day Test have helped visitor spend in Victoria hit a record high of almost $37 billion in the year ending September 2023, with more than 3.7 million visitors stayed 15.2 million nights in Melbourne.
2023 has seen records crowds at both the Australian Open and Formula One Australian Grand Prix and Melbourne hosting six matches during the FIFA Women’s World Cup.
Don’t miss out on the action. For ticketing information visit premier.ticketek.com.au.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos
"No stadium in Australia can provide a bigger crowd than the MCG – it’s the perfect place for summer cricket, and we are proud to partner to deliver another thrilling Boxing Day Test."
‘‘It’s events like the Boxing Day Test that provide a huge boost to our local economy, filling our hotels, bars, restaurants, and creating a great buzz in the city.’’