However, in the absence of their families this time due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the Aussie cricketers are holding together as a family unit amid the series against Team India.
For the first time in 40 years, Australia cricketers will spend Christmas and take field for the Boxing Day Test on Saturday without their families. The Boxing Day Test, beginning on December 26 i.e. the day after Christmas, has been a regular fixture in Australian summer since 1980.
Prior to 1980, Tests on Boxing Day were played only on five occasions — in 1950, 1952, 1968, 1974 and 1975. But since 1980, it has become an iconic Test with families joining the players.
However, in the absence of their families this time due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the Aussie cricketers are holding together as a family unit amid the series against Team India.
"First time in 50 years I am not with my family. I think it will be nice to have players together. There are a number of players and the staff who are without families. It is one of the sacrifices we have had to make in 2020. It is not ideal. But it is what it is. Such an amazing feel within the team. Honestly, it is a family feel. The guys look after each other. It is one of our values to look after each other in mateship. It is not ideal but we will get on with it for the bigger picture," said Australia head coach Justin Langer.
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