Played between two teams of eleven at the MCG, March 15,16, 17 and 19, 1877.
Australia, with Charles Bannerman 165 retired hurt (including the first “five” in Test cricket) defeated England in what became known as the first 'Test' match.
In those days a batsman got five runs for a hit over the MCG fence. Bannerman only played three Tests, and retired in 1879/1880 to become coach of the Melbourne Cricket Club.
Australia won the first Test by 45 runs, Billy Midwinter taking 5/78 in England’s first innings. Midwinter also played for England.
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