Premier

Huge Boxing Day Test With Some Indian Spice

25 December 2018

The Andrews Labor Government is expecting a huge crowd inside the Melbourne Cricket Ground and a carnival atmosphere outside the ground at this year’s Boxing Day Test.

Premier Daniel Andrews and Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Martin Pakula today joined Cricket Australia CEO Kevin Roberts to welcome cricket goers and check out the Indian Summer Festival which is taking place today and tomorrow in Yarra Park.

Visitors to the Boxing Day Test will be able to snack on tandoori chicken tacos and samosa burgers while watching performances by international artists as part of a new free festival celebrating the colour and culture of India.

The Labor Government has partnered with Cricket Australia to put on the free, three-day festival which features Indian themed food trucks, live music, dancing, street art, an open-air cinema and cricket challenges and free play zones where young fans can show off their skills.

The three-day festival at Yarra Park, outside Gate 3 of the MCG, is open to all members of the public. It supports Victoria’s India Strategy, launched in January, by showcasing Victoria as a world-class destination for sports, tourism and culture, and as a welcoming business and trade partner.

The Boxing Day Test is hugely important to Victoria’s economy – bringing thousands of visitors to Victoria, creating jobs and supporting local businesses.

With almost 210,000 people of Indian ancestry living in Victoria and the test series tied at one all, the Labor Government and Cricket Australia are again expecting big crowds as India and Australia compete for the Border-Gavaskar trophy.

The full festival line-up and event details are available at www.indianfestival18.com.auExternal Link .

Quotes attributable to Premier Daniel Andrews

“This week doesn’t just offer great entertainment and first-rate test cricket – it delivers a huge boost to our economy, creating jobs and supporting local businesses.”

“Victoria and India share a special bond and this festival gives us a great opportunity to celebrate their contribution to our multicultural society and the relationship we have.”

Quote attributable to Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Martin Pakula

“With the series all tied up at one test apiece, we’re expecting huge crowds at this year’s Boxing Day Test and this festival will give attendees the chance to experience a slice of India as well as quality cricket.”

Quote attributable to Cricket Australia CEO Kevin Roberts

“The Boxing Day Test is one of the most iconic sporting events in Australia, and we look forward to witnessing the passion of Australian and Indian fans among a big MCG crowd over the next few days.”

Reviewed 19 August 2020

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