Melbourne, Dec 24 (IANS): The West Indies players brought smiles to the faces of thousands of fans as they participated in the annual Family Day at the "G" event at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

The day of fun was geared toward young fans and over 4,000 fans turned up at the iconic venue to be part of the festivities. The Australian team also participated as players signed autographs and took photographs, reports CMC.

"It was a fantastic event for the players and the fans," West Indies team spokesman Philip Spooner said on Wednesday.

"The players were all delighted to see so many cricket lovers, young and old, from all walks of life, and from several parts of the world, who came out to see the training session and then participate in the day’s activities."

"It was a great day with excellent weather at the MCG as we build up to the Test match this weekend."

The West Indies and Australia are preparing for the second Test of the three-match series, which will be played at the MCG, starting Boxing Day (December 26).

The West Indies last played the historic Boxing Day Test back in 2000.

Significantly, the Caribbean side will be using the game to attempt to haul themselves back into the series after losing by an innings and 212 runs in the opening Test in Hobart a fortnight ago.

The West Indies have not won a Test Down Under in 18 years.