Cricket Australia has announced that the special Test match between Australia and England at the MCG in March 2027, commemorating 150 years of men’s Test cricket, will be a day-night match played with a pink ball.
The match is scheduled for March 11-15, marking the 150th anniversary of the first-ever Test match at the same venue in 1877 between Australia and England. Organizers have decided to make it a day-night fixture to increase spectator attendance and improve global television viewership.
This decision mirrors the recent women’s Ashes Test, which was also a day-night pink-ball match at the MCG. However, it will differ from the first men’s Test in 1877 and the Centenary Test in 1977, both played during the day with a red ball. Interestingly, Australia won both of those historical matches by 45 runs. This upcoming match will be the first day-night men’s Test at the MCG.
A key factor in choosing a day-night format is to maximize attendance, as the match will take place during the working and school year, unlike the Boxing Day Test, which is always held during holiday periods.
Additionally, the day-night timing will benefit international TV audiences, especially in the UK, where the evening session in Australia will be broadcast in the morning.
Todd Greenberg, the CEO of Cricket Australia, expressed his gratitude to the Victorian government and the Melbourne Cricket Club for their support in hosting the day-night Test.
He stated that the 150th Anniversary Test at the MCG will be a major cricket event, and playing under lights is a great way to celebrate cricket’s heritage and modern evolution. He believes it will allow more fans to attend and enjoy this historic occasion.
Greenberg recalled iconic moments from the Centenary Test and anticipates that the 150th Test will also create lasting memories. He mentioned that the current Ashes series will build anticipation for this match in two years.
This Test match is part of a packed 2027 schedule for the Australian men’s team, which includes four Tests against New Zealand at home in the preceding summer and a five-Test tour to India before this anniversary game. This match will coincide with the beginning of the IPL in 2027.
Although this one-off Test is not part of the World Test Championship, Australia might participate in the WTC final in June 2027, followed by an away Ashes series and the ODI World Cup later in the year.
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