BGT 2024-25: What is a Boxing Day test match? Know all about origin of it's name, history and significance

The BGT 2024-25 is finely poised at 1-1 going into the Boxing Day test.

The Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25 has so far lived up to its hype and expectation as it is evenly poised at 1-1 after three exciting tests.

While India won the series opener in Perth by a commanding 295-run margin, the hosts bounced back in Adelaide by defeating the visitors by 10 wickets in the day-night encounter.

The third test at the Gabba saw rain play the spoilsport, ultimately resulting in a draw.

Travis Head and Jasprit Bumrah have been standout performers in the series. Head has scored two brilliant centuries, one each in Adelaide and Brisbane, while Bumrah leads the wickets chart with 21 wickets.

As we move to Melbourne for fourth test, let’s take a look at why the game is remarked as the “Boxing Day test.”

What is a Boxing Day test match?

Boxing Day is a public holiday traditionally celebrated on December 26th in many countries, including the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and several other Commonwealth nations.

The name “Boxing Day” refers to a day after Christmas when traditionally people would box up gifts and distribute them to those in need. Over time, the day has evolved into a day of relaxation and a day of shopping for New Year.

In many countries like Australia and England the day is celebrated with top-tier sporting action. The Boxing Day is a significant part of the cricket calendar, especially in Australia.

A Boxing Day test match is scheduled for December 26-30 as a celebration. In Australia, the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) has been traditionally hosting the Boxing Day test for decades.

The first Boxing Day test was held in 1950 between Australia and England. Even before international cricket, domestic matches between Victoria and New South Wales were played at MCG as part of this tradition.

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