England and Australia kick off the latest Ashes series in Perth on Friday, with the English team aiming to reclaim the urn for the first time since 2015. Let’s revisit five of the most unforgettable encounters between cricket’s historic rivals dating back to 1882.
In 2019, Australia managed to retain the Ashes despite a drawn series, with Steve Smith making a remarkable comeback post a ball-tampering ban. Smith’s exceptional performance included scoring 774 runs in seven innings at an average exceeding 110, highlighted by consecutive centuries at Edgbaston. The series also witnessed England’s spectacular victory in the third Test at Headingley, led by the heroics of Ben Stokes.
The 2005 Ashes series was a historic moment for England, marking their first triumph over Australia in nearly 19 years. After Australia won the first Test, England took control following a significant injury to Glenn McGrath in the second Test at Edgbaston. The series saw memorable performances from Andrew Flintoff and a nail-biting victory for England by just two runs in the second Test.
In 1981, Ian Botham played a pivotal role in England’s Ashes victory, turning the series around with remarkable displays. Botham’s exceptional performances in crucial matches, including a counter-attack innings at Headingley and a brilliant bowling spell at Edgbaston, led England to a 3-1 series win.
The 1948 Ashes series was dominated by Australia’s ‘Invincibles’, captained by Don Bradman in his final Test series. Australia’s unbeaten tour culminated in a 4-0 Ashes victory, with notable performances from Bradman and Arthur Morris in the fourth Test at Headingley. Bradman fell short of a perfect average in his final Test innings at the Oval, bowled for a duck by Eric Hollies.
The controversial 1932/33 Ashes series, known for the “Bodyline” tactic devised by England to counter Bradman’s prowess, stirred diplomatic tensions. Despite criticism for its aggressive nature, Bodyline proved effective as England secured a 4-1 series win, limiting Bradman’s average to 56.57.