Cricket Australia (CA) shared its elation over the tremendous turnout for the New Year's Test between Australia and Pakistan at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG). The match witnessed a total attendance of 125,292 spectators, marking the highest attendance since the 2018-19 series against India.
Across the three Tests held in Perth (59,125), Melbourne (164,835), and Sydney (125,292), nearly 350,000 fans gathered, culminating in Australia's 3-0 series win against Pakistan. Nick Hockley, CA CEO, expressed delight over the overwhelming enthusiasm showcased by cricket fans nationwide, reaffirming the enduring popularity of Test cricket.
Hockley highlighted the vibrant atmosphere at the packed SCG, noting that the lively ambiance creates everlasting cricket memories, fostering a lifelong passion for the sport, particularly among fans from diverse age groups.
The Sydney Test also marked the final appearance of David Warner in the format, drawing significant attention. The match garnered a peak TV audience of 1.45 million viewers across Foxtel and the Seven Network during Warner's final Test innings, where he scored 57 runs. The Test's winning moments were witnessed by 1.4 million TV viewers, further supplemented by streaming audiences on various platforms.
In tribute to Warner's exceptional career in Test and One Day International cricket, Hockley commended Warner for attracting a multitude of fans to the sport, acknowledging his poignant half-century in front of his home crowd at the SCG.
The Test match also featured the annual tradition of the Pink Test, uniting fans nationwide in support of the McGrath Foundation. Over 322,000 Virtual Seats were sold, raising more than AUD 6.44 million, surpassing the fundraising target set for supporting families affected by breast cancer in Australia.
Expressing gratitude to fans, broadcast partners, and commercial supporters for their contributions to the McGrath Foundation during the Pink Test, Hockley emphasized the positive impact and invaluable support extended to those affected by breast cancer.
Looking ahead, Hockley anticipated the participation of Test stars in the upcoming KFC Big Bash League, followed by the return for the NRMA Insurance Test series against the West Indies in Adelaide and Brisbane, signifying a promising cricket season ahead.
(With Agency Inputs)
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