Border-Gavaskar Trophy: What is Boxing Day Test? Check history and India's record in it

Boxing Day celebrated on December 26th is a traditional day where wealthy families give gifts to those less fortunate. This practice involves packing and distributing gift boxes in countries that observe Christmas.

One popular sporting event that takes place on Boxing Day is the Boxing Day Test matches. In England, all Premier League matches are played on this day, adding to the festive atmosphere of the Christmas holidays. These sporting events draw large crowds, providing a leisurely activity for the public to enjoy.

Cricket has a long-standing tradition of holding Test matches on Boxing Day. These matches typically last for five days, with the first day of action beginning on December 26th. This annual event is known as the Boxing Day Test match.

Australia and South Africa are particularly well-known for their Boxing Day Test matches. The Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in Australia and SuperSport Park in Centurion, South Africa, are the venues where these matches are held.

This year, Australia will host India for the fourth Test at the MCG, while South Africa will kick off a two-match Test series against Pakistan in Centurion. Cricket fans in these countries eagerly flock to the stadiums in large numbers to enjoy quality time with their family and friends.

The origin of Boxing Day Test

The tradition of the Boxing Day Test dates back to the 1950s, although its exact origins are not definitively known. The first recorded Boxing Day Test match between Australia and England took place on December 22, 1950. However, it is believed that the true inception of the Boxing Day Test in Australia occurred in 1865, during a match between Victoria and New South Wales in the Sheffield Shield.

Boxing Day Tests are renowned for attracting large crowds and generating significant revenue for the host cricket board. These matches have become a cherished part of Australian and South African culture, with communities coming together to celebrate this sporting tradition.

India’s record in Boxing Day Test matches

India's performance in Boxing Day Tests at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) showcases a blend of resilience and adversity. Of the nine matches played, India has clinched two historic victories, both against Australia. The first was a remarkable 137-run win in 2018, fueled by Jasprit Bumrah's exceptional bowling display. The second triumph came in 2020, with an 8-wicket victory led by Ajinkya Rahane's inspiring century.

However, India has also endured five defeats in these encounters, notably in 1999, 2003, and 2007, where Australia asserted their dominance with commanding performances. The remaining two matches in 1985 and 2014 concluded in hard-fought draws. 

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