The upcoming Boxing Day Test between Australia and India at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) is shaping up to be a massive event, with tickets flying off the shelves.

Cricket Australia (CA) has reported a significant surge in sales, especially compared to previous years. Fans from both countries are eagerly purchasing tickets for what promises to be an exciting contest.

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How high is the demand for Boxing Day Test tickets?

According to Cricket Australia, the demand for tickets has reached unprecedented levels. The sales for the first day have tripled compared to the 2018/19 Border-Gavaskar series. The Boxing Day Test will take place at the MCG, a venue known for its massive 100,000-plus capacity.

Joel Morrison, Executive General Manager of Events & Operations at CA, stated, “The Border Gavaskar series is a highly anticipated event, and current ticket sales demonstrate enormous interest in the upcoming contest between Australia and India.”

“Tickets are selling fast for all five Tests as excitement continues to build for the summer ahead, so we’re encouraging fans to buy tickets now to ensure they don’t miss out on any of the action,” he added.

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How do ticket sales compare to previous years?

The surge in ticket sales is not limited to just the opening day. Days two through four have also seen a notable increase, with sales up by an impressive 5.5 times compared to India’s tour of Australia in 2018/19.

In contrast to the 2020/21 series, which was held with a limited crowd of 30,000 due to COVID-19 restrictions, this year’s Boxing Day Test is expected to draw a much larger crowd, possibly filling the stadium to capacity.

Another interesting aspect of the sales figures is the increased demand from Indian fans. Cricket Australia has noted a rise in tickets purchased by fans from India, up to 3.9% compared to just 0.7% during the 2018/19 series.

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“We continue to see strong sales from both Indian and Australian fans,” Morrison mentioned, “presenting a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the enduring connection between our two countries both on and off the field.”

When is the Boxing Day Test scheduled?

The five-match Test series between Australia and India will kick off on November 22, starting in Perth, followed by a day-night Test at Adelaide Oval.

The Boxing Day Test, scheduled at the MCG from December 26, is considered one of the most iconic fixtures of the Australian cricket calendar.

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The series will conclude with the final Test in Sydney, beginning on January 3, 2024, ensuring a thrilling start to the New Year for cricket fans worldwide.