Cricket Australia has announced that the special Test match between Australia and England at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in March 2027, celebrating 150 years of men’s Test cricket, will be a day-night match played with a pink ball.
This decision, made two years in advance of the March 11-15 fixture, which commemorates the first-ever Test match at the venue between the same two nations in 1877, is intended to optimize spectator attendance in Australia and increase global television audiences.
The match will follow the precedent set by the recent women’s Ashes Test, also a day-night pink-ball game at the MCG earlier in the year. However, it will contrast with the inaugural men’s Test of 1877 and the Centenary Test of 1977, which marked the 100th anniversary. Both of those historic matches were day games played with a red ball and resulted in identical 45-run victories for Australia. This upcoming Test will be the first day-night men’s Test ever hosted at the MCG.
A key factor in choosing a day-night format is to attract larger crowds, as the match is scheduled during the school and work year, unlike the Boxing Day Test which always falls within a holiday period.
Furthermore, the day-night timing is expected to significantly boost international television ratings, particularly in the UK. The evening session in Australia will be broadcast in the UK from early morning, making it more accessible for British viewers.
Todd Greenberg, the new CEO of Cricket Australia, expressed his gratitude to the Victorian government and the Melbourne Cricket Club for their support in staging the match under lights.
“The 150th Anniversary Test at the MCG promises to be a momentous cricket occasion, and playing it as a day-night match is an excellent way to honor both the rich history of our sport and the modern evolution of Test cricket,” Greenberg stated. “This format will also make it easier for more fans to attend and watch what should be a truly memorable event.”
He further added, “The Centenary Test gave us unforgettable moments, and I am confident that the 150th Test will create its own lasting memories.”
“This season’s Ashes series will build anticipation for this historic clash in two years’ time, and we are excited to celebrate this milestone as we get closer to the date.”
This match is part of a packed 2027 schedule for the Australian men’s team. Prior to this, they will play four home Tests against New Zealand in December 2026 and January 2027, followed by a five-Test tour of India in January and February. The one-off anniversary Test against England will then take place, coinciding with the beginning of the IPL in 2027.
While this Test is not part of the World Test Championship, should Australia reach the WTC final in 2027, they will participate in June, followed by a five-match away Ashes series, mirroring their 2023 schedule. The ODI World Cup is scheduled for October and November 2027.
