MELBOURNE: The Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) witnessed history on the opening day of the 2025 Boxing Day Test, recording a massive crowd of 94,199 spectators, the highest attendance ever for a cricket match at the venue.
The figure surpasses the previous MCG record of 93,013, set during the 2015 ICC Cricket World Cup final between Australia and New Zealand. It also establishes a new benchmark for the highest-attended single day of Test cricket, eclipsing the 91,112 fans who attended Day 1 of the 2013 Boxing Day Test between Australia and England.
With Days 2 and 3 sold out, the cumulative attendance for the ongoing Boxing day Test is now on track to challenge the all-time Ashes record of 271,865, also set at the MCG in 2013, although it has not yet been surpassed.
Dramatic day 1 on the field
The historic crowd was treated to a frenetic opening day, as 20 wickets fell on a lively green surface. Australia, sent in to bat first, were bowled out for 152 before tea, with Josh Tongue leading England’s attack with an impressive five-wicket haul (5/45). Michael Neser top-scored for Australia with 35 in testing batting conditions.
However, England once again failed to capitalise on early dominance. The visitors were skittled out for just 110 inside 30 overs, with Harry Brook’s counter-attacking 41 the lone resistance. Australia’s bowlers shared the spoils, with Neser finishing with four wickets, Scott Boland claiming three, and Mitchell Starc striking twice early.
At stumps on Day 1, Australia held a slender 46-run lead, reaching 4 without loss in their second innings, setting the stage for another compelling chapter in the Boxing Day Ashes Test.