January 3rd, 2012 will be a historical moment at the Sydney Cricket Ground as the Stadium will be hosting its 100th Test Match! Australia will clash with India in the Second Vodafone Test Match tomorrow in the Capital of New South Wales State - Sydney.
Well, the first ever Test Match at the Sydney Cricket Ground dates back to 1882 when Australia played against England. It was a timeless match in which Australia defeated England by five wickets. Though it was a timeless match, the Test lasted only four days excluding a rest day as the batsmen on both the sides failed to last long.
The Sydney Cricket Ground, which is famously called as 'The SCG' is located in the Moore Park and has an approximate capacity of 40,000 spectators. This venue is also used for other sports such as the Australian Rules Football and Rugby and is owned by the State Government of New South Wales. This ground has been witness to Sir Don Bradman's epic knock of 452 for the hosts New South Wales against Queensland in 1928-29 which was the great man's highest first class score.
The SCG has traditionally favoured batsmen and also spinners. Interestingly, the highest total put up at this venue in Test matches is by India in 2004 when they piled up 705 for 7 declared with the modern day great Sachin Tendulkar scoring 241 not out.
Only Lord's and the Melbourne Cricket Ground have hosted more Test Matches than the SCG and these are the only two venues. Lord's has till date has seen 123 Tests and the MCG has hosted till date 104 Tests. Apart from the SCG which will host its 100th Test tomorrow, closing in towards the 100th Test landmark is only one venue which is The Oval in London with 94 Tests.
