Up to 30,000 spectators will be permitted to attend the MCG for each day of the Boxing Day Test, following an announcement today by Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events, Martin Pakula.
The increase of 5,000 comes after a COVIDSafe Event Plan submitted by the Melbourne Cricket Club (MCC) and Cricket Australia was endorsed by Victoria’s Chief Health Officer, Brett Sutton, and is based off the latest public health advice.MCC Chief Executive Stuart Fox said he was pleased to be able to welcome more spectators to the MCG for the annual Test.
“We’re pleased to work with the Victorian Government and Cricket Australia to maximise the attendance of members and fans able to witness another iconic Boxing Day Test in just over two weeks’ time.”
Martin Pakula said the attendance is a testament to the hard work of Victorians during the COVID-19 restrictions.
“Melbourne is the home of Australia’s biggest and most-loved sporting events and it’s fantastic that we will be able to welcome 30,000 fans to the MCG on each day of the Boxing Day Test.”
“It’s testament to the hard work of all Victorians in fighting the virus that Cricket Australia and the MCC have been able to put together a plan that allows for more supporters than had been originally planned.”
The Boxing Day Test was originally set at a cap 25 per cent of the stadium’s capacity, however has been increased today following a run of 41 days without a positive COVID-19 case.
Updated information regarding access arrangement to the Members’ Reserve for the Boxing Day Test will be communicated to members tomorrow, Friday December 11.