Boxing Day, observed annually on December 26, is a day deeply rooted in history and tradition. Originating in the United Kingdom, the day initially revolved around acts of generosity, where employers gifted boxes of goods to employees and the less fortunate. Over time, the day has evolved into a significant occasion in the sporting calendar, celebrated across cricket, football, and other sports.
The origins of Boxing Day trace back to Victorian England. Churches would collect donations throughout the year and distribute them to the needy in boxes the day after Christmas. Additionally, it was a tradition for servants to receive the day off and return home with gift boxes from their employers. Officially recognised as a bank holiday in England in 1871, Boxing Day became synonymous with celebration and sporting events, especially among the working class.
Boxing Day in Cricket
In cricket, Boxing Day is marked by iconic Test matches that bring together fans worldwide. Australia has been at the forefront of this tradition since 1980, hosting a Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) against touring teams. Other cricketing nations, including South Africa, New Zealand, and England, have adopted the tradition, further globalising the Boxing Day Test.
This year, India faces Australia at the MCG in the fourth Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. The stakes are high, with the series tied at 1-1, and the match holds significant implications for the World Test Championship. Concurrently, South Africa hosts Pakistan, and Zimbabwe faces Afghanistan in their Boxing Day fixtures.
India’s Performance in Boxing Day Tests
India’s journey in Boxing Day Tests has been a mixed bag. Over 18 matches, India has won four, lost 11, and drawn three. The team’s fortunes have improved in the last decade, with significant victories against Australia in 2018 and 2020 and South Africa in 2021. However, their last outing in 2023 saw a heavy defeat against South Africa.
At the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground, India has played 14 matches, winning four and drawing two. Notable victories include their 2018 and 2020 wins against Australia, while their last defeat at the venue dates back to 2011.
Highest Scores and Best Bowling Spells by Indians in Boxing Day Tests
- Highest Scores:
- Virender Sehwag: 195 (2003, Melbourne)
- Virat Kohli: 169 (2014, Melbourne)
- Ajinkya Rahane: 147 (2014, Melbourne)
- Best Bowling Spells:
- Jasprit Bumrah: 6/33 (2018, Melbourne)
- Ravindra Jadeja: 6/138 (2013, Durban)
- Anil Kumble: 6/176 (2003, Melbourne)
Boxing Day is a unique blend of history, culture, and sportsmanship. Whether through cricket, football, or its philanthropic origins, the day continues to hold a special place in global celebrations. As India takes on Australia at the MCG, fans eagerly anticipate another memorable chapter in Boxing Day’s sporting legacy.