**Greatest Boxing Day Test Matches in Cricket History**
Boxing Day has become a cherished tradition in cricket, with the iconic Boxing Day Test providing thrilling moments for fans worldwide. Played annually starting December 26, this spectacle, particularly in Melbourne, has witnessed remarkable feats and edge-of-the-seat finishes over the years. Here’s a look at some of the greatest Boxing Day Test matches in history.
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### **1. Australia vs. England, 1982 – A Thriller at the MCG**
This match stands among the most nail-biting contests in Test cricket. England, with Bob Willis and Ian Botham starring with the ball and bat, set a target of 292 for the Australians. Allan Border and Jeff Thomson staged an incredible last-wicket stand for Australia, bringing the team within three runs of victory. However, Ian Botham snatched a one-run win for England with a catch off Thomson’s edge, making this a historic match remembered for its intensity.
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### **2. Australia vs. West Indies, 1981 – Lillee and Marsh Heroics**
The 1981 Boxing Day Test showcased the brilliance of Dennis Lillee and Rodney Marsh. Australia, facing the fiery West Indies attack led by Joel Garner and Michael Holding, was bowled out for a mere 198. Despite an incredible counterattack by Lillee, scoring 73 runs, the West Indies sealed a four-wicket victory in one of the closest matches between the two sides.
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### **3. Australia vs. India, 2018 – India's Redemption**
India’s tour of Australia in 2018 brought an iconic Boxing Day Test where Virat Kohli's men took on the hosts at the MCG. India posted a mammoth first-innings total of 443, thanks to Cheteshwar Pujara’s grit and Jasprit Bumrah’s lethal spell. India’s bowlers exploited the conditions expertly, bowling Australia out for 151 in their first innings. India eventually triumphed by 137 runs, paving the way for their historic series win Down Under.
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### **4. South Africa vs. England, 1999 – Hansie’s Triumph**
The 1999 Test between South Africa and England was a memorable match staged in Durban, another venue synonymous with Boxing Day. Shaun Pollock and Allan Donald rattled England’s batting lineup, guiding South Africa to an innings victory. Hansie Cronje’s shrewd leadership and Pollock’s all-round performance (bat and ball) stood out in this dominant display.
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### **5. Australia vs. Pakistan, 2016 – An Underdog Story**
At the MCG in 2016, the Boxing Day Test turned into a marathon as Pakistan, led by Azhar Ali’s double ton, posted 443 in their first innings. Australia’s response, with David Warner and Steve Smith, helped pile up 624 runs. The Test ultimately became symbolic of sheer resistance from Pakistan. The match ended in a spirited draw as Pakistan held their ground on Day 5, reflecting their grit against one of cricket’s best teams.
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### **6. Australia vs. South Africa, 2008 – Steyn’s Masterclass**
The 2008 match at the MCG between Australia and South Africa witnessed Dale Steyn’s fiery pace and a heroic performance by AB de Villiers. Chasing a daunting 414 in the fourth innings, the South African batters, led by de Villiers and JP Duminy, pulled off one of the most dramatic victories in Test history. It was a performance that cemented South Africa’s reputation as an indomitable team of the era.
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### **7. Australia vs. Sri Lanka, 2012 – Clarke’s Monumental Knock**
Michael Clarke had a phenomenal year in 2012, and the Boxing Day Test against Sri Lanka was a cherry on the top. Scoring a blazing 106, Clarke’s leadership helped Australia dominate the match. Mitchell Johnson delivered a man-of-the-match performance, contributing both with bat and ball. Australia registered a comprehensive innings win, showcasing their prowess at the MCG.
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### **8. Australia vs. India, 2003 – Tendulkar vs. Ponting Battle**
The 2003 Boxing Day Test is fondly remembered for pitting two cricketing giants against each other—Sachin Tendulkar and Ricky Ponting. Despite a double ton by Ponting and Tendulkar’s valiant effort, India suffered a 9-wicket defeat. The match is etched in memory for its moments of brilliance and the enthralling contest between bat and ball.
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### **Boxing Day Magic Lives On**
Boxing Day Tests are more than just cricket—they’re an embodiment of festive cheer, unity, and sporting excellence. With a rich history of drama, unexpected twists, and unparalleled performances, this tradition continues to captivate cricket lovers. As fans wait for the next Boxing Day, memories o
f these great matches keep the spirit alive.