Here's the story behind Boxing Day Test match?

Starting tomorrow, two Boxing Day Test matches will kick off, with one of them featuring Australia and India at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) and the other between Pakistan and South Africa at Centurion.  

Boxing Day Test matches, particularly popular in Australia, are traditionally played from December 26, the day after Christmas. Cricket fans often wonder why these matches are called "Boxing Day Tests."  

The term "Boxing Day" originates from the tradition of employers giving gifts or "boxes" to their employees or the wealthy distributing gifts to the less privileged on the day after Christmas. This practice, part of Christmas celebrations, is observed in countries like Australia, England, South Africa, and New Zealand, where December 26 is a public holiday.  

The tradition of Boxing Day Test matches began in 1950 with a match between Australia and England at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Since then, it has evolved into a significant festival in Australia. Families and friends flock to the stadiums to enjoy the festive atmosphere, making it a highlight of the cricket calendar.  

This year, Australia will face India in a highly anticipated Boxing Day Test at the MCG, where all tickets for the opening day have been sold out, potentially breaking attendance records for a non-Ashes Test.  

Meanwhile, Pakistan and South Africa will clash in Centurion in their own Boxing Day Test. The tradition is gaining popularity in South Africa as well, with fans enjoying the public holiday and celebrating cricket as part of their festive season.