The Ashes have been one of the most exciting fixtures in the cricket world and have witnessed unprecedented growth in terms of ticket sales and crowd participation. As interesting as the fixture gets, the history behind the name is equally intriguing. The historic series traces back to 1883 when English captain Ivo Bligh presented Lady Janet Clarke with the Ashes Bail for the first time.
The ivory blade of this intricately carved bail bears an inscription commemorating the momentous occasion on January 26, 1883, when England emerged victorious by 69 runs. The bail, knocked off by the last ball bowled in the match, was later transformed into a letter opener, adding to its historical significance.
Legend has it that the other bail met a fiery fate, with Ivo Bligh receiving the ashes in an urn. Another account suggests that the urn was presented after a friendly game at Sir William Clarke’s house in Victoria.
The 1882–1883 Ashes Test series saw a dramatic turn of events. After Australia’s initial victory and England’s subsequent triumph, the third game in Sydney was marked by remarkable enthusiasm. England posted 247 runs in the first innings, featuring notable contributions from Walter Read and wicketkeeper-batter Edmund Tylecote. Frederick Spofforth, showcasing his brilliance, claimed four wickets for Australia.
Australia, led by Alec Bannerman’s impressive 94 runs, had a competitive showing, but Fred Morley’s four-wicket haul and Allan Steel’s three-wicket performance limited them to 218 runs. In the second innings, Spofforth’s seven-wicket haul restricted England to 123.
Despite Australia appearing poised for victory, England’s Dick Barlow took seven wickets for 40 runs, leading to the hosts being dismissed for 83. Ivo Bligh fulfilled his promise to “recover the Ashes,” securing England’s victory in the second Test and ultimately winning the 1883 Ashes series 2-1.
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