Cricket Australia's financial woes deepen as the Boxing Day Test's early conclusion leaves a £5 million revenue gap. The match, played on a bowler-friendly pitch at the MCG, ended three days ahead of schedule, resulting in a significant loss for the sport. The anticipated crowd of over 90,000, including a large English fan base, was left disappointed. This scenario mirrors a previous instance in Perth, where a two-day victory cost Australian cricket £1.5 million. Ground curator Matthew Page's decision to prepare a pitch with a generous 10mm of grass proved controversial, as it favored bowlers and led to a rapid match conclusion. Cricket Australia's CEO, Todd Greenberg, admitted that short Tests negatively impact revenue, acknowledging the need for more involvement in wicket preparation. Captain Steve Smith expressed concern over the financial implications, especially with the expected full house on the final day. Nasser Hussain, a former England captain, criticized the pitch's excessive movement, suggesting it turned the match into a spectacle rather than a traditional Test. The early finish sparked debates about the balance between entertainment and the sport's integrity, leaving fans and experts alike questioning the future of Test cricket.
