The Boxing Day Tests carry with themselves another level of enthusiasm as it is the last test of the year. The fondness for Test cricket has grown with distinguished amount in modern day cricket. The Boxing Day Test matches, traditionally starting on December 26th, represent one of cricket’s most cherished traditions. The Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in Australia and Kingsmead in South Africa have been iconic venues for these historic fixtures.
| Year | Player | Opponent |
|---|---|---|
| 1987 | Vengsarkar | West Indies |
| 1992 | Kapil Dev | South Africa |
| 1998 | Azharuddin | New Zealand |
| 1998 | Sachin Tendulkar | New Zealand |
| 1999 | Sachin Tendulkar | Australia |
| 2003 | Sehwag | Australia |
| 2014 | Kohli | Australia |
| 2014 | Rahane | Australia |
| 2018 | Pujara | Australia |
| 2020 | Rahane | Australia |
| 2021 | Rahul | South Africa |
| 2023 | Rahul | South Africa |
| 2024 | Nitish | Australia |
The MCG’s Boxing Day Test, in particular, holds special significance, regularly drawing massive crowds exceeding 90,000 spectators, creating an electrifying atmosphere that players dream of experiencing. Beyond being mere cricket matches, these tests have become cultural phenomena, marking the holiday season with high-quality cricket. Over the years, they’ve produced memorable moments, from stunning catches to record-breaking performances, making them an integral part of cricket’s rich heritage.
Also Read: Nitish Kumar Reddy Net Worth: How Rich Is India’s Saviour In Boxing-Day Test?
In a remarkable display of Test cricket batting, Nitish Kumar Reddy scored a determined century against Australia, showcasing the perfect blend of technique and temperament. His 171-ball hundred, decorated with ten boundaries and one six, exemplified the classical approach to Test match batting.
