Centurion: The much-anticipated two-Test series between Bharat and South Africa commences today, with the first Test taking place at Centurion.
What is Boxing Day Test?
The Boxing Day Test was introduced in the United Kingdom in 1950 and is now celebrated in various countries. Originating at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), the Boxing Day Test is the Test match held from December 26 to 30. The first Boxing Day Test was played between the Ashes (Australia and England).
This tradition was later extended to South Africa and New Zealand. The date, December 26, holds historical significance in countries once under British Empire rule and is celebrated as ‘Boxing Day.’ In Britain, the day marked the distribution of Christmas presents to workers, known as ‘Christmas box presents.’
Bharat’s track record in Boxing Day Tests is less than stellar, having won only four out of the 17 matches played, with 10 defeats. Out of the six matches played against South Africa, Bharat emerged victorious twice. Notable performances in Boxing Day Tests include Virender Sehwag’s memorable 195 against Australia in 2003 and the brilliant innings by Virat Kohli (169) and Ajinkya Rahane (147) in Melbourne in 2014.
Bharat has been participating in Boxing Day Tests since 1985, and here are the outcomes of those matches up to 2021.
In 1985 vs Australia – Draw
In 1987 vs Windies-Die
In1991 vs Australia-Loss
In 1992 vs South Africa-Loss
In 1996 vs South Africa-Loss
In 1998 vs New Zealand-Loss
In 1999 vs Australia-Loss
In 2003 vs Australia-Loss
In 2006 vs South Africa-Loss
In 2007 vs Australia-Loss
In 2009 vs South Africa-Won
In 2011 vs Australia-Loss
In 2013 vs South Africa-Loss
In 2014 vs Australia-Draw
In 2018- vs Australia – Won
In 2020 vs Australia – won
In 2021 vs South Africa-Won
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