A crowd of 30,000 per day has been approved for the Boxing Day Test between Australia and India at the MCG in a decision based on the latest public health advice.
Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Martin Pakula on Thursday confirmed the figure after a COVIDSafe Event Plan submitted by the Melbourne Cricket Club and Cricket Australia was endorsed by the Chief Health Officer under the Victorian Government’s Public Events Framework.
The approved attendance is higher than the 25,000 per day forecast in late October and is possible due to improved public health conditions.
The Melbourne Cricket Club and Cricket Australia will now take carriage of the COVIDSafe Event Plan for the Test, ensuring the health and safety of players, spectators and the wider community.
Australia will play India in a four-match Test series, with Melbourne hosting the second of four Test matches. Tickets have gone on sale today, 10 December.
Pakula said, “Melbourne is the home of Australia’s biggest and most-loved sporting events and it’s fantastic that we will be able to welcome 30,000 fans to the MCG on each day of the Boxing Day Test.
“It’s testament to the hard work of all Victorians in fighting the virus that Cricket Australia and the MCC have been able to put together a plan that allows for more supporters than had been originally planned.”
Cricket Australian chief executive Nick Hockley said, “We can’t wait to see 30,000 fans each day at the MCG for the Boxing Day Test. It will be the first time fans have been able to attend a sporting event at the MCG since the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Final, and we’re excited to be able to welcome so many fans.”
Melbourne Cricket Club chief executive Stuart Fox said, “We’re pleased to work with the Victorian Government and Cricket Australia to maximise the attendance of members and fans at another iconic Boxing Day Test in just over two weeks.”
Follow The Indian Sun on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook
Support Independent Community Journalism
Dear Reader,The Indian Sun exists for one reason: to tell stories that might otherwise go unheard.
We report on local councils, state politics, small businesses and cultural festivals. We focus on the Indian diaspora and the wider multicultural community with care, balance and accountability. We publish in print and online, send regular newsletters and produce video content. We also run media training programs to help community organisations share their own stories.
We operate independently.
Community journalism does not have the backing of large media corporations. Advertising revenue fluctuates. Platform algorithms change. Costs continue to rise. Yet the need for credible, grounded reporting in a multicultural Australia has never been greater.
When you support The Indian Sun, you support:
• Independent reporting on issues affecting migrant communities
• Coverage of local and state decisions that shape daily life
• A platform for small businesses and community groups
• Media training that builds skills within the community
• Journalism accountable to readers
We cannot cover everything, but we work to cover what matters.
If you value thoughtful reporting that reflects Australia’s diversity, we invite you to contribute. Every donation helps us maintain the quality and consistency of our work.
Please consider making a contribution today.
Thank you for your support.
The Indian Sun Team
