Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG): The Home of Australian Cricket
The MCG holds 100,000 people and is the world's largest cricket stadium. Hosting the Boxing Day Test, the 1992 and 2015 World Cup finals, and countless historic moments, it is the cathedral of Australian sport.
The Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) is the largest cricket stadium in the world by capacity, holding 100,024 spectators. It is the home of the Boxing Day Test — one of cricket's most celebrated annual fixtures — and has hosted some of cricket's greatest occasions including World Cup finals in 1992 and 2015.
Boxing Day Test
The Boxing Day Test (26 December) at the MCG is Australia's most anticipated domestic cricket event. It has sold out most years, with attendances of over 80,000 on Day 1 common. The Boxing Day Test is often the fourth Test of an Ashes or bilateral series and draws massive television audiences across Australia, UK, and beyond.
World Cup Finals
The MCG hosted the 1992 ODI World Cup Final — Pakistan beat England by 22 runs in a dramatic finish. It hosted the 2015 World Cup Final between Australia and New Zealand, with Australia winning by 7 wickets to claim their fifth World Cup title, Michael Clarke's last major act as captain. The MCG also staged the inaugural Test match in 1877.
The MCG and Test Cricket
The MCG hosted the very first Test match ever played — England vs Australia on 15 March 1877. Australia won by 45 runs. A century later in 1977, the MCG hosted the centenary Test between the same two countries; Australia won by exactly 45 runs — a remarkable coincidence. The ground has been home to the Melbourne Cricket Club since 1838.
Frequently asked questions
What is the MCG's capacity?
100,024 — the largest cricket stadium and one of the largest stadiums of any sport in the world.
When was the first Test match played at the MCG?
15-19 March 1877 — the inaugural Test match, England vs Australia. Australia won by 45 runs.