The fourth Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy between Australia and India has set a historic attendance record, cementing its place as one of the most memorable matches in cricket. Held at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), the match drew a staggering total of 373,691 spectators across five days, highlighting the global appeal of this fierce cricketing rivalry.
Record-Breaking Attendance at MCG
Day five alone saw 74,362 fans flood the stadium, bringing the cumulative total to a new record for Test cricket in Australia. This broke the previous milestone of 350,534 set during the 1936-37 Ashes series, when legendary cricketer Donald Bradman dominated the sport. The achievement also shattered the Boxing Day Test attendance record of 271,865 set during the 2013-14 Ashes series.
Cricket Australia expressed its gratitude to fans in a celebratory tweet, calling it “an Australian cricketing record, an MCG record, and history made.”
Global Fan Presence Elevates the Series
Cricket Australia Chief Nick Hockley praised the diverse turnout of fans from across the globe. “What’s been particularly special about this series is the number of India fans, not just from India but worldwide,” Hockley noted. He highlighted the MCG’s significance in cricketing history, describing it as “a spiritual place in cricketing folklore.”
The influx of fans from countries like the UK, Canada, and the US reflected the widespread enthusiasm for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, showcasing the global impact of the rivalry between Australia and India.
Thrilling Conclusion to the Fourth Test
The Melbourne Test ended in dramatic fashion as Australia claimed a thrilling 184-run victory on the final day. After a gritty contest, India collapsed to 155 all out with just 12.5 overs remaining in the match. Australia’s bowlers delivered a stunning final session, taking seven wickets to secure a 2-1 lead in the five-match series.
This victory puts Australia in a commanding position, while India must now win the final Test in Sydney to level the series and retain the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
Read: India Falters at the MCG: A Test Match That Slipped Away
MCG and the Legacy of Boxing Day Tests
The MCG has long been a cornerstone of cricket history, and this Test further solidified its reputation as a premier venue. The Boxing Day Test tradition continues to grow in stature, drawing passionate fans and setting new benchmarks for attendance and enthusiasm.
The record-breaking crowd underscores the enduring appeal of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, a series that consistently delivers high-stakes cricket and unforgettable moments. With the series still undecided, the focus now shifts to Sydney, where India will fight to keep their hopes alive and Australia will aim to clinch the trophy.
The Melbourne Test will be remembered not only for its thrilling conclusion but also for the remarkable show of support from cricket fans around the world, proving once again why the Border-Gavaskar Trophy is among the most celebrated contests in the sport.
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