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In a momentous announcement for cricket fans worldwide, Australia and England will face off in a special one-off Test match at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in 2027. This historic encounter will commemorate the 150th anniversary of Test cricket, a format that has enthralled spectators for over a century and a half. The two cricketing giants first met in a Test match at the MCG in 1877, marking the very beginning of this prestigious format. They also played the centenary Test at the same venue in 1977, a match won by Australia. The 150th anniversary Test promises to be a captivating celebration of the sport's rich history and enduring legacy.
Beyond this landmark event, Cricket Australia (CA) and state governments have secured the hosting rights for key Test matches in the coming years, providing much-needed certainty and stability to the cricketing calendar. The annual Boxing Day Test, a beloved tradition in Australia, will continue to be held at the MCG until the 2030-31 season. Similarly, the New Year's Test will remain at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) for the same period. These matches consistently attract massive crowds and generate significant interest both domestically and internationally.
In a significant shift, Perth has been awarded the rights to host the opening Test of the summer for the next three years. This marks the first time in over four decades that the Ashes series will commence at a venue other than the Gabba in Brisbane. This change will bring a fresh dynamic to the Ashes rivalry and offer fans in Perth the opportunity to witness the world's best players in action. Meanwhile, the Adelaide Oval will play host to the December Christmas Test for the next seven years, in either a day or a day-night format. While the next Ashes Test in Adelaide in 2025-26 is scheduled to be a day game, the venue has previously hosted thrilling pink-ball Tests, adding a unique dimension to the competition.
Source: Australia, England to play one-off match at MCG for 150th Test anniversary in 2027