Cricket Australia's chief executive, Todd Greenberg, has indicated that the possibility of transforming the iconic Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) into a day-night affair remains very much alive. This revelation comes as the sport's governing body continues to explore innovative formats to enhance the spectator experience.
Pink-Ball Cricket Gains Momentum in Australia
In a recent discussion with Fox Cricket, Greenberg highlighted the growing success of pink-ball Test matches in the country. He pointed to the thrilling day-night encounters in Brisbane and Adelaide as evidence of their popularity and competitive strength. The MCG itself is no stranger to floodlit Tests, having already hosted a women's day-night match in January 2025 and being scheduled to host a historic day-night men's Test between Australia and England in March 2027.
"Look, it's not off the cards," Greenberg stated, addressing the potential for a day-night Boxing Day Test. "We've been talking a lot about the strength of pink-ball cricket, it was amazing this year in Brisbane, and it has been really good in Adelaide." He confirmed that the concept would get a significant trial in Melbourne with the 150th Anniversary Test against England from March 11 to 15, 2027.
Historic 150th Anniversary Test and Ticket Ballot
Cricket Australia is pulling out all the stops for the monumental 150th Anniversary Test against England. For the first time ever, the organization has launched a ticket ballot system to manage the anticipated high demand for this historic clash. The ballot officially opened on December 23 and will remain accessible to fans until February 6, 2026. Successful applicants will be notified by February 13, 2026.
Greenberg expressed great optimism about the event's appeal. "I don't have the early numbers, but the concept of running a ballot will give you some demonstration of what we see in this event," he said. "The strength of ticket sales and the interest it will have, 150 years of cricket between our two countries is going to be a pretty special moment." He drew parallels to the fondly remembered Centenary Test of 1977, aiming to recreate that magic for a new generation of fans.
MCG's Long-Standing Association with Summer Cricket
The Melbourne Cricket Ground boasts a deep-rooted connection with the Boxing Day Test tradition, which began in 1950. Despite the venue's commitments to Australian Rules football during parts of the summer, Cricket Australia holds firm contractual rights to use the MCG through March. This arrangement was further solidified earlier this year when CA extended its venue hire agreement with the MCG through the 2030-31 summer season.
This long-term security provides a stable foundation for CA to plan future marquee events, including the potential evolution of the Boxing Day spectacle. The success of the upcoming day-night Test in March 2027 will likely be a major factor in deciding whether the famous Boxing Day fixture will eventually be played under lights, blending tradition with modern innovation to secure the format's future.
