New Delhi, December 18 (IANS): Melbourne Cricket Club (MCC) president Stuart Fox has spoken about the possibility of the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) hosting two Tests in a season, stressing that the decision rests with the sport’s Australian governing body.
Last month, Australian media reports hinted that the iconic Melbourne stadium was being considered to host two Test matches, enabling Australia to host the traditional Boxing Day Test against New Zealand on December 26 2026 with the possibility of one match against England to celebrate. The 150th year of Test cricket in March 2027.
“It’s really a question for Australian cricket. We’ve had discussions and it’s certainly not closed,” Fox said on SEN Breakfast. “We have certainly expressed our strong interest that we would like to host that match.”
“It would be great to have two huge Test matches. We’re in the mood for Cricket Australia to make it happen, but it’s never easy. The cricket calendar is going to be a nightmare. Fingers crossed. The agenda going forward is India to England,” he added. In New Zealand and a possible special test in 2027.”
Regarding this year’s Boxing Day Test against Pakistan, which begins on December 26, Fox expects a strong attendance, especially during the first two days.
“The tradition and history of G and Test cricket – I think we’ve played 155 Test matches since 1877. There’s a lot of history so fans tend to come. I’m certainly hoping for some big numbers. On the first day, you might want to pay upwards of 70,000 and in The second day (over) 60,000.
“I still think we can get really strong numbers for Pakistan. The agenda ahead for Pakistan over the next three or four years is absolutely fantastic, so there will be huge sponsorship for years to come.”
