The Ashes, the legendary cricket series between England and Australia, began in 1877 with the first-ever Test match played at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

The rivalry quickly grew after England lost to Australia on home soil in 1882, prompting a satirical obituary in The Sporting Times declaring that “English cricket had died, and the body will be cremated and the ashes taken to Australia.” 

1879 Ashes

Lord Harris led the England team on its second official tour of Australia. Dave Gregory led Australia. This was the third-ever Test match in history (after the two Tests in 1877), and the only Test of England’s 1878/79 tour.

England batted first and were bundled out for 113, undone by Spofforth’s devastating 7/46. Australia replied with a strong 256, taking a decisive lead of 143. Despite a better second effort from England (160), Spofforth again took 5 wickets. Australia required only 18 runs, which they chased without loss to win by 10 wickets.

 

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