More than 125,000 tickets have been snapped up for the 150th Anniversary Test between Australia and England at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), with strong demand from interstate and overseas fans pointing to large crowds when the match gets under way next March.
The match, scheduled from March 11–15, 2027, will mark 150 years since the first recognised Test cricket match, which was played between Australian and English sides at the same ground in 1877.
Cricket Australia introduced a ticket ballot to manage interest in what will be the first men’s day-night Test at the MCG. So far, most of the public allocation for the first three days has been sold, with crowds expected to be sizeable across all four days on public sale.
Fans from outside Victoria have played a major part in the sales, accounting for more than half of tickets sold to date. There’s a clear appetite from the UK and other parts of Australia to be part of the event, suggesting interest that goes beyond local supporters.
Cricket Australia’s chief executive said the response had exceeded expectations and encouraged anyone keen to attend to secure tickets now. He added that plans were in place for entertainment and activities around the match that would suit the occasion.
The 2027 match is not part of an Ashes series, but its bilateral nature adds historical resonance given the origin of Test cricket between the two nations. Previous milestone Tests, such as the Centenary Test in 1977, have drawn attention for commemorating key anniversaries in the sport’s long history.
The weekday evening start and pink-ball conditions for this Test reflect efforts to appeal to modern audiences and international viewers, while also drawing big crowds at the venue where Test cricket began.
Remaining public tickets for days three and four went on sale recently, and details on member and AFL ticket allocations are due to be confirmed in coming months.
Support independent community journalism. Support The Indian Sun.
Follow The Indian Sun on X | 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
