OTD in 1882: The foundation of the Ashes was established


image-l7es8xo3The Ashes is the oldest bilateral tournament [PC: Twitter]

Cricket fans across the globe get glued to the TV sets, a million hearts beat faster, and cricket emerges as the ultimate winner when England and Australia fight neck-to-neck for the urn in the Ashes. On this day in 1882, Australia defeated England for the very first time in a Test match, establishing the cornerstone of the most iconic rivalry for ages to come. 

The decision to bat first backfired Australia badly as they were bundled out for a paltry 63 in the first innings. Dick Barlow was England's pick of the bowlers, scalping five wickets for 19 runs. Apart from captain Billy Murdoch, only Jack Blackham and Tom Garrett managed double-digit scores. 

In reply, England were no exception either, being bowled out for just 101 runs, courtesy of Frederick Spofforth's magnificent spell. Hugh Massie led Australia on the batting front in the second innings, as his fighting knock of 55 runs played a pivotal role in providing a crucial 84-run lead. 

Chasing 85, England finally fell short by seven runs, as Spofforth starred with the ball yet again, registering match-winning figures of 7 for 44. 

This remarkable victory was scripted in golden letters in Australia's rich cricket history and established the foundation of the Ashes between the two arch-rivals. 


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