Many countries outside of cricket-playing nations may not know that the Ashes test series is one of cricket’s most prestigious sporting events. Though it may seem like a random name or merely an old tradition, there are many reasons why the Ashes is an iconic event on the sports calendar.
There are many popular and important sporting events, so why is the Ashes series standout? The Ashes series is a contest between the English and Australian cricket teams to see who can retain physical possession of a small urn. Those not familiar with cricket will find it difficult to understand what are the ashes in cricket.
The Ashes is one of the most important cricket events of the year. But, to understand its importance, you must know what it is. Are you a cricket fan? Do you want to keep up with the latest news from the sport? Then keep on reading below to know more about it.
Cricket’s Oldest Rivalry
The Ashes is not just a cricket test series between two teams, but it is a matter of pride to win and bring the ashes trophy to its country. It is one of the oldest international cricket rivalries globally, spanning over a century, and has been entwined with British culture for as long as anyone can remember.
The rivalry represents a simple yet potent struggle between bat and ball, being contested by some of the most talented cricketers across the globe. This specific rivalry is perhaps known internationally more than any other, but how did this rivalry begin?
At what point did this rivalry take shape? How has it progressed to become the most popular overseas cricket rivalry and the most important modern era? The Ashes is the answer, and there are many answers. Today you will explore the history of this particular sports game and the team that has dominated the series.
Origin Of The Ashes
The origin of the Ashes is rather obscure. There are theories regarding how this tradition began; as you know, the Ashes is test cricket series that takes place once every two years. It is said that The Ashes test cricket test series started in 1882. In 1882 Australia became the first team to beat England on their home- ground at the oval.
The media and the news wrote about the English team, and the dead body’s ashes would be sent to Australia. This news caught my attention, and when England toured Australia for the next test series, an urn of ashes of cricket bat was presented to the English team.
This is how the rivalry to become the best test cricket team started between Australia and England. Hence the trophy was introduced in the Ashes and was given to the winning team. The trophy is transferred to the team winning the ashes every year.
Which Team Has Won Most Ashes Test Series? Australia Vs. England
Haven’t you been following cricket lately? The Ashes is the summer’s major sporting event, with England and Australia fighting it out on a test level. Which team has won the most series?
Keep reading to find out. The first Test match was held in 1877/1878, and England won the first series in Australia with a 2 -1 score. So far, 72 series have been played between these two teams, with England winning 32 and Australia 34.
The most recent win for Australia in the Ashes was in 2021, in which they wipe washed the England team with the win 4-0, and one match was drawn in the ashes. The Australian team is dominating the Ashes series with the most wins in series and matches. Australia has 140 test matches, whereas England could clinch the win in 104 matches only.
Record-Breaking Knocks In The Ashes
As you know, Australia has dominated over England here in the records too. They have amazing individual and team records to talk about. Australia has a record-breaking total run in a single match of the ashes of 1028 runs. Australia scored 701 runs in the 1st innings and 327 in the second. But England has the highest total runs in a single inning, and they made 903 runs in the 1938 ashes series.
The individual records will tell you why Aussies have continuously won the matches. Australia is very popular and one of the best cricket teams all around the world, and it has given some of the legendary players to the world.
Sir Donald Bradman of Australia is the greatest batsman in the Ashes. He has a total of 5000 runs in the ashes. Also, in the bowling area, Shane Warne leads the list of all-time highest wicket-taker with 195 wickets in his bag.