A lot of people who are bored stiff by cricket probably ask the same question. But for cricket lovers in both Australia and England the Ashes is one of the greatest prizes in cricket – which is all the more remarkable because it does not exist!
The Ashes is a mythical prize played for by England and Australia when they meet in test matches. The name dates from 29 August 1882 after Australia had beaten England in England for the first time. The Sporting Times printed a mock death announcement for English cricket ending with the sentence, The body will be cremated and the Ashes taken to Australia.’
When England beat Australia in 1882-3, two English ladies presented the captain, the Honour able Ivo Bligh, with an Ashes Urn, and this remains permanently in the pavilion at Lord’s.
Picture Credit : Google
