Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) — Australia's Oldest Test Venue
Discover the Sydney Cricket Ground — its Victorian grandstands, the SCG hill, and its significance as one of the world's oldest continuously used cricket venues.
The Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) is one of the oldest and most beautiful cricket venues in the world, having hosted Test matches since 1882. Located in Moore Park, Sydney, the SCG is the home of New South Wales cricket and is also used by Sydney Swans Australian rules football club. Its famous Victorian-era Members Pavilion and Ladies' Stand are heritage-listed structures, giving the ground a distinctive atmosphere unlike any other in Australia.
The New Year's Test
The SCG is famous for hosting the New Year's Test match — typically the fifth and final Test of the Australian summer, played around January 3–7. The New Year's Test is a Sydney institution, with families making it an annual tradition. The match is often decisive in Ashes series and has produced some of Australia's most celebrated home victories.
The SCG Heritage Architecture
The SCG's Members Pavilion (built 1886) and Ladies' Stand (1896) are heritage-listed and represent some of the finest Victorian sporting architecture in Australia. These stands give the ground its distinctive character — the ornate ironwork, twin turrets, and emerald-green roof make the SCG immediately recognisable from any photograph. The modern Lachlan Murdoch and Clive Churchill stands have extended capacity while preserving the heritage structures.
Famous SCG Moments
- 1991–92 series: Mark Taylor's 839 runs in the Ashes series that season (not all at SCG)
- 2021: Marnus Labuschagne's consistent form building the Ashes victory
- 2003: Steve Waugh's final-ball century in his farewell Test
- The Phil Hughes Tribute Test (2014–15) against India
The Famous Hill
For much of the 20th century, the SCG's Hill — a grassed area without seats — was famous for its larrikin crowd culture. Spectators on the Hill were legendary for their wit, ribaldry, and loyalty. The Hill was redeveloped for the 2000 Sydney Olympics, and standing general admission was replaced with seating. While the modern SCG is more comfortable, old-timers lament the loss of the Hill's irreverent atmosphere.
Frequently asked questions
When was the first Test match at the SCG?
The first Test match at the Sydney Cricket Ground was played in February 1882, between Australia and England. Australia won by 5 wickets.
What is the New Year's Test?
The New Year's Test is an annual Test match played at the SCG around January 3–7, typically the fifth Test of Australia's home summer series. It is a long-standing Sydney tradition, often drawing large holiday crowds.