Legend of the Ashes

The Ashes, one of cricket’s fiercest rivalries, has been contested by England and Australia since 1882. The battle for the famous urn has sparked controversy, enthralled crowds and produced iconic sporting moments

1882: Mock obituary in Sporting Times after England’s shock home defeat to Australia
proclaims death of English cricket. Body will be cremated and “ashes” taken to Australia

1883: England win in Australia, regaining Ashes. Bail is burnt, placed in small urn and presented to team captain Ivo Bligh

1933: Controversial Bodyline series. England counter threat of top Australian batsman Don
Bradman by bowling bouncers to prevent run-scoring

1953: Captained by Len Hutton, England win decisive final test to secure first Ashes series at home for 27 years

1975: Dennis Lillee and Jeff Thomson give Australia emphatic 4-1 series victory

1981: All-rounder Ian Botham galvanises England at Headingley with inspirational match-winning performance

2005: England regain Ashes for first time in 18 years

2007-18: Australia twice thrash England 5-0, but England score only series victory
played away from home (2010-11)


Source: Reuters
Pictures: Getty Images
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