The Ashes Test cricket series is arguably the most famous rivalry in cricket. Fans from both England and Australia eagerly look forward to this biennial clash with huge anticipation. After a period of domination England finally wrestled the famous urn from Ricky Ponting's team in the 2005 series, only to be thrashed 5-0 Down Under eighteen months, or so, later. England hit back in 2009 with a 2-1 Ashes series win resulting in the 2010/11 Ashes test series being regarded as a fairly open contest...
Ashes DVDs
Fortunately highlights of recent Ashes series between England and Australia have been released on DVD and we have those that are still available in our Ashes DVD shop.
England Cricket Clothing
We are pleased to be able to bring you a selection of official England cricket clothing within our cricket shop. There is a mix of official test shirts, official ODI shirts, t-shirts, and Barmy Army leisurewear.
The Bodyline Series
Arguably the most controversial series took place in Australia during 1932/33. Many Australian batsmen were injured from the 'fast leg theory' style of bowling, and the series eventually caused a serious diplomatic row. England regained The Ashes and it was later dubbed the 'Bodyline' series.
England's Ashes Victories
In 1981, with England one down after two Tests, Mike Brearley was brought out of retirement in an attempt to rescue England. However, during the third Test at Headingley England had followed-on after being 227 runs in arrears. At one stage England were 135 for 7, and being offered at 500-1 by bookmakers. Thanks largely to 149 not out by Ian Botham England battled to a lead of 129. Amazingly, Australia was bowled out for 111 with Bob Willis taking 8 for 43. It was the first time since 1894/95 that a team following-on had won a Test match. England then defeated Australia at Edgbaston, who again failed to make a relatively low score in the fourth innings. It was an amazing series, which later became known as 'Botham's Ashes'.
Modern Ashes Tours
The 2005 Ashes series was one of the best Test series ever played. Australia won the first Test at Lord's. England then won the second Test at Edgbaston by a thrilling two runs; the smallest margin in Ashes history. The third Test was drawn and England won the penultimate Test. It wasn't until the final session on the final day of the final Test that England eventually shut out Australia to secure the draw and regain the Ashes for the first time in 18 years. It was a truly memorable series and one which had really hurt the Australians - so much so, the Australians were out for revenge in the 2006/07 series. This was achieved emphatically with a 5-0 whitewash.
Collectable Cricket DVDs
Many of the legends to have played in Ashes Tests include Australians Sir Donald Bradman (the world's greatest ever batsman), Allan Border, Dennis Lillee and Shane Warne (the greatest spin bowler of all time), and Englishmen Sir Jack Hobbs, WG Grace, Jim Laker and Ian Botham.Fortunately, snippets of 'early' Ashes cricket were captured in black & white on newsreels of the day and have been lovingly transferred onto DVD. And, more recently Ashes Tests have been recorded by colour TV cameras and have also been copied onto DVD. There are usually the most recent Ashes series highlights available on DVD as well as classic moments and action from memorable series in the past.
