MCG to host special Australia-England Test in 2027: Details here
Cricket Australia (CA) has announced that the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) will host a one-off Test between Australia and England in March 2027. This match is set to commemorate the 150th anniversary of Test cricket. The decision was made as part of new seven-year staging agreements for regular Tests at the MCG, Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG), and Adelaide Oval.
A tribute to the Centenary Test
The 2027 Test will be a tribute to the Centenary Test of 1977, which Australia won by 45 runs. This victory margin was identical to that of the inaugural Test played in 1877. The Centenary Test was a memorable event with Rod Marsh and Derek Randall scoring centuries, and Dennis Lillee taking 11 wickets.
CA CEO expresses excitement for 150th anniversary Test
Nick Hockley, the CEO of Cricket Australia, expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming match. He stated, "The 150th anniversary Test match at the MCG in March 2027 will be a wonderful celebration of the pinnacle format of the game at one of the world's great sporting arenas and we can't wait to host England on that occasion."
Future Tours Programme extends beyond 2027
Despite the current Future Tours Programme (FTP) only being finalized up to early 2027, England and India have already confirmed tours for the subsequent four years. This indicates a commitment to continue the tradition of Test cricket beyond the existing schedule. The annual Boxing Day and New Year's Tests have also been secured until 2030-31 as part of these new agreements.
Optus Stadium to host opening Test for three seasons
The Optus Stadium in Perth has been chosen to host the opening Test of the season for the next three years. This decision was made by the Western Australian government, which did not pursue a longer deal. As a result, next year's Ashes will commence in the west instead of at Brisbane's traditional Gabba venue.
Uncertainty surrounds Gabba's future as Test venue
The future of Gabba as a Test venue is uncertain due to redevelopment plans for the 2032 Olympics. Only the next two seasons - matches against India and England - have been confirmed. Mike Baird, the Cricket Australia chair, acknowledged this uncertainty stating, "In Brisbane it is harder [to plan] because of the infrastructure."
