The player of the match medal for the upcoming second Test between India and Australia will honour pioneering Australian aboriginal player Johnny Mullagh.

The measure is part of CA's (Cricket Australia) 2019 Reconciliation Action Plan through which it is looking to improve the sport's relationship with Australia's indigenous population and honour the feats of indigenous players.

The upcoming second Test between the two nations, will be the traditional Boxing Day Test, will be played at the Melbourne Cricket Ground starting on December 26.

CA in a statement said, "The Mullagh Medal itself, which will be presented to the official player of the match at the conclusion of the Boxing Day Test against India for the first time, is a recreation of the original belt buckle worn by the 1868 team.

WHO WAS MULLAGH

Johnny Mullagh, whose real name was Unaarrimin, led the Australian Aboriginal team on their 1868 tour of England, played 45 of 47 matches.

(With inputs from IANS)