There is still some water to pass under the bridge before the MCG will be confirmed to host two Tests in one season.
Reports late last month suggested that the iconic Melbourne venue was in the mix to house a pair of Test matches in the summer of 2026/27.
The report indicated that the ‘G would host the traditional Boxing Day Test against New Zealand on December 26 in 2026 with the possibility of a one-off match against England to celebrate the 150th year of Test cricket in March of 2027.
WHY THE MCG IS SET TO HOST TWO TEST MATCHES IN THE 2026/27 HOME SUMMER
Melbourne Cricket Club (MCC) chief Stuart Fox has commented on the possibility of this taking place, insisting that it currently sits in the hands of the sport’s governing body in Australia.
“It’s really a question for Cricket Australia,” Fox said on SEN Breakfast.
“We’ve had discussions, it’s certainly not locked in. We’ve certainly expressed strong interest that we would love to host that game.
“It would be just fantastic to have two massive Test matches. We’re in it if Cricket Australia can pull it off, but it’s never easy. The cricketing calendar would be a nightmare.
“Fingers crossed. The agenda moving forward is India into England into New Zealand and a possible special Test in 2027.
“It’s pretty exciting for us.”
As for this year’s Boxing Day Test against Pakistan, Fox is expecting very solid crowds at least for the opening two days.
Thereafter he is also forecasting strong attendance numbers given what is ahead for impending summers of cricket in Australia.
“The tradition and history of the ‘G and Test cricket - I think we’ve had 155 Test matches since 1877,” he added.
“There’s so much history so fans tend to turn up. I’d certainly be hoping for some big numbers. Day 1 you’d want to push over 70,000 and Day 2 (over) 60,000.
“I still think we can have really strong numbers for Pakistan. The agenda ahead of Pakistan for the next three or four years is just outstanding, so there’s going to be huge patronage for years to come.”
The second Test of this summer between Australia and Pakistan kicks off next Wednesday on December 26.
You can hear all the action LIVE across the SEN network.
