The legendary Ashes cricket series, which kicks off this week between two cricket giants, began with heartbreak and mockery 140 years ago. Australia defeated England by seven runs at The Oval on August 29, 1882.
This marked Australia’s first victory over full-strength England on English soil. The defeat triggered one of cricket’s most famous collapses.
Reginald Shirley Brooks published a mock obituary the following day. The Sporting Times journalist declared English cricket “dead” in his satirical piece.
“English cricket died at The Oval,” Brooks wrote dramatically. “The body will be cremated and the Ashes taken to Australia.”
Ivo Bligh planned a tour to Australia before this defeat occurred. Three weeks later, his team departed to recover English cricket’s metaphorical ashes.
England won the Australian series 2-1 and reclaimed the symbolic ashes. A group of women presented Bligh with a small urn.
The urn supposedly contained ashes from the third match’s bail. One woman later became Bligh’s wife, adding romance to cricket history.
Debate surrounds the urn’s actual contents throughout cricket circles. Some claim it holds a veil’s remains or burnt ball cover.
The urn never serves as the official trophy for winners. Replicas reward successful teams at each series conclusion instead.
Bligh’s widow donated the original urn to Lord’s in 1928. It remains permanently displayed at the Marylebone Cricket Club museum.
The Ashes series alternates between England and Australia regularly. Summer timing differences create varying gaps between series.
Australia has won 34 Ashes series compared to England’s 32. Seven series ended in draws, allowing holders to retain trophies.
England last won the Ashes during summer 2015 at home. They achieved only two Australian victories in forty years. England seeks to break their lengthy losing streak down under.
Ben Stokes leads England’s current campaign against the holders. Australia defends their title on home soil once again.
The 74th Ashes series commences on November 21 in Perth. Cricket’s greatest rivalry continues its fascinating 140-year journey.
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