Melbourne once again commands the attention of the sporting world today as an epic Ashes edition of the Boxing Day Test draws fans from across Australia and around the globe.
More than 100,000 tickets have been sold to international and interstate visitors across the course of the Test, delivering a major boost to Victoria’s visitor economy. The milestone was revealed today by Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos alongside Cricket Australia CEO Todd Greenberg and Melbourne Cricket Club CEO Stuart Fox.
Crowds of around 90,000 people are expected on each of the first three days of the blockbuster match, building on last year’s record-breaking Test against India, which attracted 373,691 fans across five days.
The surge in visitors is already flowing through to the city, with Melbourne CBD hotel occupancy forecast to be more than 15 per cent higher than comparable days a week earlier, and 11 per cent higher than the same period last year.
Beyond the boundary, fans can immerse themselves in the festive atmosphere at Summer Fest in Yarra Park, featuring live music and family-friendly activities including free games, giveaways and skills challenges.
This year’s Boxing Day Test also builds momentum towards a historic milestone, with the MCG set to host the 150th Anniversary Men’s Test between Australia and England in March 2027.
The landmark match will be the first men’s Test played under lights at the MCG, adding a modern chapter to the legacy of the famous 1977 Centenary Test — won by Australia by 45 runs, the same margin as 100 years earlier.
Cricket Australia and the Shane Warne Legacy will again raise awareness for heart health and diabetes during the Test, with fans invited to take a free health check at any of the 56 stations in and around the MCG. The quick checks measure key health indicators including blood pressure, BMI, resting heart rate and five-year diabetes risk.
The ongoing partnership between Cricket Australia and the Victorian Government has strengthened fan engagement and marketing, helping drive larger crowds and securing the MCG as the home of the Boxing Day Test until at least 2030.
Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos said, “The next week will be a huge boost for the visitor economy, with thousands of people travelling from interstate and overseas to watch the cricket and experience the very best of Victoria.”
“The Boxing Day Test is not an overnight success. It’s supported by year-round promotion that helps attract huge crowds and fills hotels, bars, restaurants and venues right across the state.”
Minister for Community Sport Ros Spence said, “We’re proud to support the free Summer Fest fan zone, extending the excitement beyond the ‘G and helping inspire the next generation of players and fans to pick up a bat and ball.”
Cricket Australia CEO Todd Greenberg added, “The NRMA Insurance Boxing Day Test holds a special place in Australian cricket, with the MCG crowd creating moments that have become part of the game’s folklore.
“We’re incredibly grateful for the ongoing support that has helped elevate this historic match into a world-class sporting event.”
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