Cricket Australia has announced a special Test match between Australia and England at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in March 2027. This unique day-night game, featuring a pink ball, will commemorate the 150th anniversary of men’s Test cricket.
Scheduled from March 11th to 15th, this will be the first-ever day-night men’s Test match held at the MCG. The venue recently hosted a women’s Ashes Test under day-night conditions.
Unlike the inaugural Test in 1877 and the Centenary Test in 1977, which were daytime red-ball matches at the MCG, this historic event will utilize floodlights to maximize viewership.
Cricket Australia CEO Todd Greenberg highlighted the occasion as a fitting tribute to cricket’s heritage and its ongoing evolution. He stated that the 150th Anniversary Test at the MCG will be a significant cricket event, with the day-night format enhancing the celebration of the sport’s rich history and modern Test cricket.
He added that playing under lights will make the event more accessible for fans to attend and watch.
Greenberg recalled iconic moments from the Centenary Test, including David Hookes’ boundary hitting, Rick McCosker’s courageous batting with a broken jaw, and Derek Randall’s memorable century. He expressed confidence that the 150th Test will also create unforgettable memories.
He mentioned that the current Ashes series will build anticipation for this clash and expressed excitement for the upcoming celebrations.
He also thanked the Victorian Government and the Melbourne Cricket Club for their support in hosting this momentous Test match.
This fixture will not be part of the World Test Championship (WTC) but is one of 12 Tests in Australia’s season, which includes series against Sri Lanka, New Zealand, and India. Australia’s busy year also includes an Ashes tour to England and participation in the ODI World Cup in South Africa.
