AUS vs ENG: Boxing Day at the MCG Sets New Attendance Record as Ashes Deliver Early Drama

The Boxing Day Ashes Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground produced a moment of history even before tea, as a record-breaking crowd turned up to witness one of cricket's most storied rivalries. A remarkable 93,442 spectators streamed into the MCG, making it the highest attendance ever recorded for a single day of cricket at the iconic venue.

The turnout eclipsed the previous benchmark of 93,013, set during the 2015 ODI World Cup final, and comfortably surpassed the earlier Test cricket record of 91,112 from the opening day of the 2013 Ashes at the same ground.

In the broader context of the format, it now stands as the second-largest crowd ever to attend a single day of Test cricket after the IND-PAK Calcutta Test of 98-99, where 1 lakh+ spectators

turned up.

Those who filled the stands were treated to immediate drama. After winning the toss under gloomy skies and on a surface offering plenty to the bowlers, England's pace attack tore into Australia with ruthless efficiency. The hosts were bundled out for a modest 152, never quite finding their footing against sustained pressure.

Josh Tongue was the standout performer, spearheading England's charge with figures of 5 for 45. His spell punctured Australia's top order early, removing key batters and energising England supporters scattered across the ground. Travis Head, Jake Weatherald and Marnus Labuschagne departed cheaply, while Steve Smith's innings ended abruptly when Tongue rattled his stumps. Usman Khawaja, Alex Carey and Cameron Green attempted to steady the innings, but none could build a substantial partnership. Michael Neser's 35 was the highest score, though it only postponed Australia's collapse.

At the time of writing this article, England were reeling at 98/9 with Michael Neser and Scott Boland picking up 4 and 3 wickets respectively.

Beyond the on-field action, the massive crowd has reignited hopes of another milestone - a new record for total attendance across an Ashes Test. The current mark of 271,865, set during the 2013 series, could be under threat if strong numbers continue over the next two days, a possibility acknowledged by MCC chief executive Stuart Fox.

For England, already beaten in the series and having surrendered the urn early, the day offered a rare chance to savour a statement performance. Australia remain firmly in control of the contest overall, but in front of a packed MCG, they were reminded that the Ashes can still deliver sharp twists - both on the field and in the stands.