Famous Matches & Events at Melbourne Cricket Ground
Test cricket matches: The Melbourne Cricket Ground has hosted some of the most famous Test cricket matches in history, including the 1877 Test match between Australia and England, considered the first Test match ever played. Here are some of the most exciting moments from cricket matches held at the MCG.
- The 'Bodyline' Ashes series: The 1932-33 Ashes series between Australia and England was one of the most controversial series in cricket history. The English bowlers used a tactic known as 'bodyline', which involved short-pitched deliveries aimed at the batsman's body. The tactic was very effective, and it helped England to win the series. However, it was also very dangerous, and it led to a number of injuries.
- Don Bradman's 334 runs: Don Bradman is considered to be one of the greatest batsmen in cricket history. In 1930, he scored 334 runs against England at the MCG. This is the highest individual score ever made in a Test match at the MCG.
- The 'Miracle on the Grass': In 1977 Australia played India in a Test match at the MCG. India was chasing a target of 349 runs to win the match, and they were 95 runs for 6 wickets with just 2 overs left. However, they managed to score the remaining 44 runs to win the match. This is one of the most famous comebacks in cricket history.
- One Day International cricket matches: The MCG has hosted many high-profile One Day International (ODI) cricket matches, including the 1992 World Cup final, which Pakistan won.
AFL Grand Finals: The MCG has hosted the Australian Football League Grand Final every year since 1902. The Grand Final is the most important match in the Australian Football League (AFL) season and is often a sell-out event.
Olympic Games: The MCG hosted the 1956 Summer Olympics, the main venue for athletics, football, and field hockey events. The Olympics were a huge success, and they helped to put the MCG on the map as one of the world's premier sporting venues.
Rugby League State of Origin matches: The MCG has several State of Origin matches, which are the annual interstate rugby league series between New South Wales and Queensland. The State of Origin matches are always hotly contested and often attract sell-out crowds.
Soccer matches: The MCG has hosted many soccer matches, including the 2000 Olympic Games final, which was won by Cameroon. The MCG will also host the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup final.