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.” 

1880 Ashes

The Only Test of the 1880 England–Australia series, played at The Oval from 6 to 8 September 1880, was the first Test match ever staged in England and produced a dramatic contest.

Australia, led by Billy Murdoch, were dismissed for just 129 in their first innings, with George Ulyett taking 7 for 36.

England replied strongly with 420, built around a commanding 152 by W.G. Grace on his Test debut—the first century in a Test in England. Trailing by 291 runs, Australia fought back magnificently in their second innings, Murdoch scoring a brilliant 153 to lift his side to 327 and set England only 57 to win.

The small target proved tricky as Harry Boyle’s bowling reduced England to 31 for 5, but the hosts steadied to reach 57 for 5 and secure a five-wicket victory, marking a historic beginning for Test cricket on English soil.

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