Victorian Premier Dan Andrews is adamant the Boxing Day Test, like the AFL grand final, is going nowhere.
But the early signs were ominous that the MCG pitch is a road again for the third Test between Australia and India.
Last year's Ashes pitch was rated as poor - the first time that has happened for an international deck in Australia - and that prompted speculation about the future of the Boxing Day venue.
But before Indian captain Virat Kohli won the toss and batted on Wednesday, Andrews rubbished talk that WA might make a play for the prime fixture.
"Perth want the grand final and we have made sure that is not happening until 2057," Andrews said.
"The Boxing Day Test, outside of Melbourne, really, c'mon. That can't be serious, surely.
"Perth, they are kind of try-hards with this sort of stuff, aren't they?
"They are always wanting to pinch events but they never, ever get there.
"They built this brand new stadium but they have got no events to run in it."
Cricket Australia chief executive Kevin Roberts said negotiations are continuing for a deal that would keep the Boxing Day Test at the MCG.
"I don't know if there is another sporting precinct anywhere in the world (like this) and we are blessed to be able to put on one of cricket's most iconic events at one of the most iconic venues in world sport," Roberts said.
"We hope to keep it that way."
Australia introduced off-spinner Nathan Lyon into the attack after only seven overs.
Paceman Pat Cummins hit Hanuma Vihari with a bouncer, forcing him to change his helmet, but the Indian opener ducked into a delivery that he would have expected to go over his head.
