Cricket Australia has announced a historic 150th Anniversary Test between Australia and England at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. The day-night pink-ball match is scheduled for March 11-15, 2027.

This match marks 150 years since the first men’s Test, played at the same venue in March 1877. Unlike that game and the Centenary Test in 1977, both played as daytime red-ball matches, this will be the first men’s day-night Test at the MCG.

Why a day-night Test?

Cricket Australia opted for a day-night match to increase crowd attendance and television viewership. Since the fixture falls within the school and work calendar, evening sessions will allow more fans to attend.

UK viewers will also benefit from this timing. The final session will air at 7:30 AM GMT, making it easier for English fans to watch live.

Greenberg on the historic occasion

Cricket Australia’s chief executive, Todd Greenberg, thanked the Victorian government and the Melbourne Cricket Club for supporting the event.

“The 150th Anniversary Test at the MCG will be a special event, and playing under lights is a fitting way to honor Test cricket’s history while embracing its evolution,” Greenberg said.

“The Centenary Test in 1977 produced unforgettable moments, including David Hookes smashing five consecutive boundaries off Tony Greig, Rick McCosker bravely batting with a broken jaw, and Derek Randall’s heroic century. We expect the 150th Test to create its own iconic memories.”

Australia’s packed 2027 schedule

Australia has a busy year ahead. Before the anniversary Test, they will:

• Host New Zealand for four Tests (Dec 2026 – Jan 2027)
• Tour India for five Tests (Jan – Feb 2027)
• Return home to face England in the anniversary Test (March 2027)

This match overlaps with the start of the 2027 Indian Premier League (IPL), which begins on March 14. Although it won’t count toward the World Test Championship (WTC), Australia may still qualify for the WTC Final in June. After that, they will tour England for a five-match Ashes series.

Later in the year, Australia will also compete in the 2027 ICC ODI World Cup, scheduled for October-November.

A match to remember

The first-ever men’s pink-ball Test at the MCG blends tradition with modern cricket. The Australia vs England rivalry has created unforgettable moments, and this game promises to be another thrilling chapter.