The countdown to one of Australia’s most anticipated Test matches this summer is officially on, with just 150 days until the Adelaide Christmas Test returns to Adelaide Oval.
Australian wicketkeeper Alex Carey helped mark the milestone on Monday, embracing the festive spirit when he spoke to the media, as excitement builds ahead of the test match against New Zealand in December.
Carey said the Adelaide Christmas Test remained one of the standout fixtures on the international calendar, with players and fans alike looking forward to another packed summer of cricket.
“150 days out until we have the Christmas test against New Zealand, which is fantastic. New Zealand are playing great cricket. So it's going to be a huge summer of cricket again.”
“It starts in the next month up in Darwin, but to talk about the Adelaide test and to consider how close it is, is really exciting. For the South Australian players, for our members and the cricketing world, we really get around the Adelaide test, all the players love it.”
The Adelaide Christmas Test has become a marquee fixture on the Australian sporting calendar, attracting capacity crowds and delivering memorable moments.
Carey reflected on Australia’s most recent Test at Adelaide Oval, where the hosts wrapped up the Ashes series in front of a packed Adelaide Oval. He said the venue has consistently produced quality cricket, and with a balance between bat and ball made it one of his favourite places to play.
“I always think the Adelaide test is a great one to watch as a cricket lover,’ Carey said.
“There's always something in it with the ball. There's normally some runs scored throughout the game. The weather is normally quite sunny and the fans can enjoy the back as well. It's just a great test to be part of”
With Adelaide now locked-in as Australia’s pre-Christmas Test until 2031, Carey said the certainty around the fixture was welcomed by both players and supporters.
“Our Members turn out if it's day or night. Our crowd really loves it here”
“Knowing the time slot it is now for the next few years is also great for the Members to book it in the calendar. It's great for the fans to book it in, you know, school holidays that time of year, people travel, but we always get a sellout, so I think it makes life a little bit easier knowing when it is.”
Before Australia turns its attention to New Zealand, Carey and the Test squad will begin their red-ball campaign against Bangladesh next month.
After enjoying a well-earned break following a busy summer, the South Australian said he was eager to get back.
“I'm really keen to play and you know, get back out the in field and do what I love doing.” Carey said.
“I think it's important to freshen up mentally and physically as well. So I've done that and yeah, keen as mustard.”
With 150 days to go, the countdown is well and truly underway for another summer of international cricket, with the Adelaide Christmas Test once again set to take centre stage at Adelaide Oval.
Australia face New Zealand at Adelaide Oval from December 17 to 21, with tickets now on sale and SACA Memberships open for renewal. Visit membership.saca.com.au.
𝗔𝗱𝗲𝗹𝗮𝗶𝗱𝗲 𝗖𝗵𝗿𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗺𝗮𝘀 𝗧𝗲𝘀𝘁: 𝗔𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗮𝗹𝗶𝗮 𝘃𝘀 𝗡𝗲𝘄 𝗭𝗲𝗮𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗱
17-21 December 2026
Adelaide Oval
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