Australia’s Pink Tests at the SCG have delivered iconic cricketing moments while championing breast cancer awareness through the McGrath Foundation. From thrilling last-over finishes to record-breaking performances, these matches blend sporting excellence with a powerful cause. Discover the top three unforgettable Pink Tests that showcase Australia’s resilience on the field and their commitment to making a difference off it.
3. Australia vs. South Africa: 2009
The inaugural Pink Test marked the beginning of a meaningful partnership between Cricket Australia and the Glenn McGrath Foundation. However, it was equally notable for delivering five days of high-quality Test cricket between two of the world’s strongest cricketing nations. South Africa entered the match in Sydney with a commanding 2-0 lead in the three-match series, having defeated Australia at both the WACA and Melbourne.
Australia began the match on a strong note, amassing an impressive 445 runs in their first innings, thanks to a stellar century by Michael Clarke. In reply, South Africa managed 327 runs, giving the home side a 118-run lead. Looking to solidify their advantage, Australia declared their second innings at 257/4, setting the Proteas a challenging target of 376 runs.
The final day saw a dramatic twist as South African captain Graeme Smith, batting at No. 11 with a broken left arm, attempted to defy Australia’s bowling attack. Partnering with Makhaya Ntini, Smith courageously resisted for 29 minutes. However, the relentless Australian bowlers broke through just five minutes before stumps, securing a hard-fought consolation win for the hosts.
2. Australia vs. England (2011): A Clash to Remember
The Ashes clash between Australia and England in Sydney stands out as the only instance where Australia has lost a Pink Test out of 15 matches played so far. This encounter was not just a defeat but a resounding humiliation for the home side.
Australia managed 280 runs in their first innings, but England delivered a crushing response. The visitors dismantled the Australian bowling attack, amassing a colossal 644 runs in 177.5 overs. The innings featured three centuries, with Alastair Cook’s masterful 189 laying a solid foundation. Matt Prior and Ian Bell also contributed with brilliant centuries, propelling England to the mammoth total.
Under immense pressure, Australia faltered in their second innings, folding for just 281 runs. England secured a dominant victory by an innings and 83 runs, etching this match in Ashes history as one of their most comprehensive wins on Australian soil.
1. India vs Australia (2021)
India’s 2020-21 tour of Australia remains iconic for several reasons, with the thrilling victory at The Gabba standing out. However, the groundwork for that historic series triumph was laid in the gripping Pink Test at Sydney, where India’s extraordinary effort secured a hard-fought draw. Heading into the Sydney clash, the series was evenly poised, with both sides having claimed one win apiece. Australia banked on their formidable pace attack to dismantle the Indian batting lineup, but the visitors had a different script in mind.
Australia dominated early, posting 338 runs in their first innings and restricting India to 244, gaining a vital 94-run lead. In their second innings, the hosts extended their advantage, declaring at 312/6 and setting India an imposing target of 407 runs. Faced with an uphill battle, the Indian batsmen displayed remarkable resilience on the final day. Cheteshwar Pujara played a pivotal role, occupying the crease for 277 minutes and facing 176 deliveries to frustrate the Australian bowlers. His defiant stand helped India hold on for a draw, keeping their Border-Gavaskar Trophy hopes alive.
