What is Boxing Day? Why is Boxing Day Test matches big deal? Here's all you need to know
Melbourne/Centurion: Cricket fans around the globe are reveling in the excitement of the Boxing Day Tests, a term familiar to many but often shrouded in mystery. Today, on the 26th of December 2023, two enthralling encounters are taking place as India faces off against South Africa at Centurion, while Pakistan locks horns with Australia in a compelling battle at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).
Mystery of Boxing Day:
While cricket enthusiasts are well-acquainted with the term "Boxing Day Test," the significance of this cricketing tradition is not always clear. Originating in the United Kingdom, Boxing Day, observed on December 26th, is a public holiday in several Commonwealth nations, including Australia and South Africa. The term itself has historical roots, believed to be linked to the tradition of giving boxes or gifts to servants and tradespeople on the day after Christmas as a token of appreciation for their year-round services.
The Dual Showdown: India vs. South Africa and Pakistan vs. Australia:
On this Boxing Day, cricket fans are treated to a double delight with two riveting Test matches unfolding simultaneously. India is battling South Africa at Centurion, where the cricketing titans are showcasing their skills in a contest that promises high stakes and intense competition.
Why Boxing Day Tests are a Big Deal:
The Boxing Day Test holds a special place in the hearts of cricket enthusiasts for several reasons:
Tradition: The Boxing Day Test has a long-standing tradition in Australian cricket, dating back to 1950. It is an integral part of the cricketing calendar and has become a significant annual event for both players and fans.
Holiday Tradition: Boxing Day itself is a public holiday in Australia, and many people have the day off. The Test match provides an opportunity for families and cricket enthusiasts to come together, enjoy the game, and extend the holiday celebrations.
Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG): The Boxing Day Test is traditionally held at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), one of the most iconic and largest cricket stadiums in the world. The MCG has a capacity to host a massive crowd, and the atmosphere during the Boxing Day Test is often electric.
Global Audience: The Boxing Day Test typically attracts a global audience due to its historical significance and the quality of cricket played. Cricket fans around the world tune in to watch this particular Test match, making it a showcase event for Australian cricket.
Start of the Australian Summer: The Boxing Day Test marks the beginning of the Australian cricket summer. It sets the tone for the Test series and provides an opportunity for players to showcase their skills in the longer format of the game.
Historical Moments: Over the years, the Boxing Day Test has witnessed many memorable and historic moments in cricket. Iconic performances and records set during these matches contribute to the Test's prestige.
Festive Atmosphere: The holiday season and the festive atmosphere contribute to the popularity of the Boxing Day Test. It's not just about cricket; it's about the experience of being part of a special occasion during the holiday season.
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Vijayendra slams Cong govt over alleged medicine shortage, irregularities in health dept
Bengaluru (PTI): Karnataka BJP president B Y Vijayendra on Wednesday hit out at the Congress government over alleged medicine shortages, large-scale irregularities and disruption of services in the health department.
The situation had deteriorated to such an extent that doctors were forced to protest on the streets, he claimed.
Addressing a press conference here, he said the Siddaramaiah-led government lacked the will to resolve pressing public issues and accused it of indulging in "blame politics" instead of governance.
"Due to the irresponsibility of this Congress government, the health department itself is in the ICU. There is a severe shortage of medicines in government hospitals. The 108 ambulance services are facing severe problems. Doctors have been pushed to the streets to protest. The Congress government celebrates 1,000 days in power with achievement conventions, but it has failed to solve real problems," he said.
He criticised the state government for allegedly shutting down Jan Aushadhi centres located on government hospital premises, claiming that needy patients are suffering as they are not getting medicines.
"For the past two months, government doctors themselves have been advising poor patients to buy medicines from private pharmacies because medicines are unavailable in hospitals," he alleged.
Vijayendra further alleged that the state government has reportedly not cleared Rs 143 crore in dues to institutions providing CT scan and MRI services.
"As a result, needy patients in rural and urban areas are unable to access these services. Pregnant women are facing hardships. Doctors are forced to protest on the streets...This government claims to be one that delivers on its promises. But does it have even the slightest concern for how poor people are struggling in the healthcare sector," he alleged.
The BJP state president claimed that the Congress government under Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and its deputy D K Shivakumar is not pro-poor; instead, it is a government that supports middlemen.
"Who is responsible for the medicine shortage in government hospitals and medical colleges? The state government and the concerned ministers are responsible. According to information available to me, under pressure from influential individuals, irregularities are taking place in medicine procurement. Instead of purchasing medicines through authorised central and state agencies, the government has moved to fragmented district- and taluk-level tenders," he claimed.
He further alleged that due to commission demands of 15-20 per cent, many companies and public enterprises are not participating in tenders, worsening the system.
Vijayendra claimed that the Karnataka State Medical Supplies Corporation's procurement system has been sidelined, leading to an artificial shortage of medicines.
He also alleged that a private individual from Mangaluru is controlling the state's medicine procurement system, supplying medicines to most government hospitals.
"This has led to market prices being inflated. Medicines costing Rs 100 are reportedly being purchased for Rs 300. I will provide more documents and evidence in the coming days," he claimed.
He also alleged that staff associated with the 108 ambulance services have not been paid salaries for the past eight to nine months.
"The government must take responsibility and reform the system instead of protecting middlemen," he added.
