Boxing Day Test Memorable Moments #11 – Kim Hughes stands up to Windies

In the lead in to the 2012 Boxing Day Test, Cricket Victoria is counting down the 20 most memorable moments from the MCG.

Named one of the seven wonders of the sporting world in 2009, the ‘G plays hosts to Victoria’s international schedule each year and the Boxing Day Test is the jewel in the international calendar.

For further information on this year’s international fixtures at the ‘G, click here.

Ian Chappell called it the bravest innings he has ever seen.

Against the West Indian pace quartet of Joel Garner, Colin Croft, Andy Roberts and Michael Roberts, Kim Hughes stood tall in the 1981 Boxing Day Test, hitting an unbeaten 100 as his teammates fell around him.

On a MCG wicket that was playing inconsistently, Hughes walked to the crease at 3-8.

Number 11 Terry Alderman hung around during a vital 43-run partnership which helped Hughes reached 100*.

Ian Chappell recalled to Cricinfo his memory of the innings.

“He took the West Indian quicks on, he pulled them and hooked them,” Chappell said.

“It was an innings of great bravery.

“It takes a lot of mental fortitude to take the bowlers on (on a pitch like the one that Hughes faced).”

After Australia was dismissed, Dennis Lillee ripped through the West Indian top-order, including Viv Richards with the final ball of the first day in one of the best spells seen at the ground.

The West Indies fought back on day two to snatch a three-run first innings lead.

The home side posted 222 in their second innings, despite the best efforts of Holding (6-52) with Hughes (eight) unable to repeat his heroics.

The Australians, led by off-spinner Bruce Yardley (4-38), bowled the West Indies out for 161 to secure a famous victory.

Watch Hughes’ innings at http://cricvi.co/WMGy5l

Will you be there at the 2012 Boxing Day Test to see this year’s moment?

Book your tickets at http://cricvi.co/QdOzBY

#12 – Headley’s heroics http://cricvi.co/UhUH8m
#13 – Reid destroys England http://cricvi.co/SBxEbg
#14 – Warne’s arrival http://cricvi.co/11N5Gyj
#15 – Ponting at his finest http://cricvi.co/11uTQbK
#16 – Yallop’s marathon http://cricvi.co/VeU14C
#17 – South Africa’s finest win http://cricvi.co/TweTVo
#18 – Dodemaide’s debut http://cricvi.co/V7XvrR
#19 – Tendulkar masterclass http://cricvi.co/QoLCPe
#20 – Pattinson and Siddle lead the attack http://cricvi.co/V9SUc9