Victoria will draw significant attention in 2027 as the 150th Anniversary Men’s Ashes Test between Australia and England is set to take place at the MCG, following a new collaboration between the Allan Labor Government and Cricket Australia. Premier Jacinta Allan and Minister for Tourism, Sport, and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos, along with Cricket Australia CEO Nick Hockley, gathered at the MCG to reinforce Victoria’s status as Australia’s premier sports and events hub.
The partnership that has been so long-term and will make sure that Iconic Boxing Day Test will continue to played in MCG until 2030. This collaboration also emphasizes enhancing fan experiences with live music, diverse food and drink options, interactive sports activities, and community engagement events, extending the thrill of the match beyond the stadium. Renowned as one of cricket’s most cherished traditions, the Boxing Day Test draws hundreds of thousands of fans annually, with Melbourne and the MCG showcased to a global audience. Additionally, the MCG will host the 150th Anniversary Men’s Ashes Test in March 2027, echoing the historic Centenary Ashes Test of 1977.
In 1977 a huge crowd was filled in MCG for five days where Australia won by 45 runs.
These major events provide a significant boost to Victoria’s economy to record $39.3 billion. Australia will also be hosting the women’s team in Women’s Ashes day-night Test early next year.
As stated by Premier of Victoria Jacinta Allan
“We’re proud to welcome fans from around the world to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the Ashes at the MCG.”
“The Boxing Day Test belongs in Victoria and that’s where it will stay.”
As stated by Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos
“Victoria is Australia’s major events capital – and now there’s more reasons to travel from around Australia and across the globe with events like these.”
Cricket Australia CEO Nick Hockley also expressed his thoughts,
“We are enormously grateful to the Victorian Government and we’re delighted the MCG will host a fantastic array of matches and events over the next seven years – including the NRMA Insurance Boxing Day Test, the CommBank Women’s Ashes Day-Night Test in January 2025 and the 150th Anniversary Test in March 2027.”
