The Boxing Day Test holds a special place in the hearts of cricket enthusiasts, and the Indian cricket team’s journey in this iconic fixture has been a rollercoaster of emotions, marked by victories, defeats, and historic moments.
MCG Chronicles: Boxing Day Tests in Australia
The Indian cricket team embarked on its first Boxing Day Test in Australia in 1985, stepping onto the hallowed Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) for a clash that ended in a draw. Since then, India has been a regular contender in this prestigious fixture, participating in nine encounters spanning from 1985 to 2020.
The record, however, reflects a mix of outcomes. Out of the eight completed matches, India faced defeat on five occasions, clinched victory twice, and settled for a draw twice. The MCG has witnessed the brilliance of Indian centurions, with Virender Sehwag, Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane, and the legendary Sachin Tendulkar etching their names in the annals of history.
Here’s a snapshot of India’s Boxing Day Tests in Australia:
| Year | Batting First | Result |
|---|---|---|
| 1985 | Australia | Draw |
| 1991 | India | Australia won by 8 wickets |
| 1999 | Australia | Australia won by 180 runs |
| 2003 | India | Australia won by 9 wickets |
| 2007 | Australia | Australia won by 337 runs |
| 2011 | Australia | Australia won by 122 runs |
| 2014 | Australia | Draw |
| 2018 | India | India won by 137 runs |
| 2020 | Australia | India won by 8 wickets |
South Africa Sojourn: Boxing Day Tests in the Rainbow Nation
India’s venture into Boxing Day Tests extended to the vibrant cricketing landscape of South Africa in 1992, with St George’s Park hosting the historic encounter. Unfortunately, the inaugural bout on South African soil resulted in a defeat for India, with the hosts securing a victory by 9 wickets.
The subsequent years witnessed six more Boxing Day Tests in South Africa, adding layers to the narrative. South Africa emerged victorious in four of these encounters, while India turned the tide in the last two matches.
Here’s a glimpse of India’s Boxing Day Tests in South Africa:
| Year | Batting First | Result |
|---|---|---|
| 1992 | India | South Africa won by 9 wickets |
| 1996 | South Africa | South Africa won by 328 runs |
| 2006 | South Africa | South Africa won by 174 runs |
| 2010 | India | India won by 87 runs |
| 2013 | India | South Africa won by 10 wickets |
| 2021 | India | India won by 113 runs |
The latest chapter unfolded in Centurion in 2021, where India emerged triumphant by 113 runs, marking a significant victory on South African soil.
As the Boxing Day Tests continue to shape the narrative of Indian cricket, each match adds a new chapter to the evolving saga, blending the essence of tradition with the thrill of contemporary battles. The MCG and South African venues stand witness to the resilience, passion, and talent of the Indian cricket team, creating enduring moments etched in the memories of fans worldwide.