Australia v England: 150th Anniversary Test Match
March 11, 2027 – March 15, 2027 AEDT
The greatest rivalry in cricket history returns to its birthplace. In March 2027, the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) will host a one-off Test match to celebrate 150 years since the first-ever Test was played between Australia and England in 1877. This “once-in-a-generation” event will be the first-ever Men’s Day/Night Test held at the MCG, blending a century and a half of tradition with the spectacular atmosphere of pink-ball cricket under the lights.
This guide provides essential information for fans planning to attend this historic five-day clash from March 11โ15, 2027.
๐ When is the 150th Anniversary Test?
The match is scheduled over five days:
- Dates: Thursday, 11 March โ Monday, 15 March 2027
- Format: Day/Night Test (Pink Ball)
- Hours of Play: TBC (Expected start approx. 14:00 AEDT, finishing under lights)
๐ Where is the 150th Anniversary Test?
The match will be held at the world’s most storied cricket ground:
- Venue: Melbourne Cricket Ground (The MCG)
- Location: Brunton Ave, Richmond, VIC 3002, Australia
- Capacity: 100,000
๐๏ธ About the MCG
Known simply as “The ‘G,” the MCG is the largest stadium in the Southern Hemisphere. For the 150th Anniversary, it will host its first men’s day-night Test. The atmosphere is expected to be electric, with up to 90,000 fans attending daily. Fans are encouraged to visit the Australian Sports Museum located within the stadium (Gate 3) during the tea or dinner breaks to see memorabilia from the original 1877 match.
๐๏ธ How do I get tickets?
Due to extreme demand, Cricket Australia is using a multi-phase release strategy:
- Official Travel Packages: On sale from 21 November 2025. These are the only way to guarantee a seat alongside accommodation.
- Public Ticket Ballot: Fans must register for the ballot between 23 December 2025 and 6 February 2026.
- Ballot Results: Successful applicants will be notified by 13 February 2026.
- Official Vendor: All public tickets are sold via Ticketek Australia.
- Note on Day 5: Regardless of your ticket category, Day 5 is traditionally sold as General Admission (entry via a gold coin donation to charity) if the match proceeds that far.
โ๏ธ How do I travel to the MCG?
The MCG is located within Yarra Park, a short distance from Melbourneโs Central Business District (CBD).
- On Foot (Highly Recommended): The MCG is a scenic 20โ25 minute walk from Federation Square/Flinders Street Station via the William Barak Bridge or the Birrarung Marr parkland.
- By Train: Take the train to Richmond Station (all major lines) or Jolimont Station (Hurstbridge or Mernda lines). Both are a 5-minute walk from the stadium.
- By Tram: * Route 75 & 48: Stop at Wellington Parade.
- Route 70: Stop at MCG/Melbourne Park.
- Note: The MCG is just outside the Free Tram Zone. You must touch on with a Myki card when traveling from the CBD.
- Ride-Share/Taxi: Dedicated zones are located on Wellington Parade and Brunton Avenue. Expect heavy traffic after the final session under lights.
๐จ Where to Stay in Melbourne?
- East Melbourne / Richmond: Closest to the ground. Pullman Melbourne on the Park is located directly opposite the MCG.
- CBD / Flinders Lane: Ideal for those who want to be near Melbourneโs famous laneway bars and restaurants (Quincy Hotel, Westin).
- Southbank: Offers luxury riverside stays (Crown Metropol, The Langham) with a pleasant walk to the stadium along the Yarra River.
- Docklands: Modern apartments (Nesuto) with easy tram access to the MCG via the city.
Booking Tips:
- Check the F1 Calendar: The Australian Grand Prix is often held in March. If the dates overlap, hotel prices will tripleโbook your accommodation as soon as you secure your ticket or package.
- Pre-Match Function: Many official packages include an invite to a function on Day 2 (12 March) featuring cricketing legends.
๐ Helpful Links for Your Trip
- Cricket Australia 150th Anniversary Portal
- MCG Official Website
- Public Transport Victoria (PTV)
- Ticketek Australia Ballot Page
Be part of history as the baggy green and the three lions meet where it all began 150 years ago! ๐ฆ๐บ๐ด๓ ง๓ ข๓ ฅ๓ ฎ๓ ง๓ ฟ
Last Updated on January 20, 2026 by Sports Tourist