The Australian team, for the 1961 Ashes tour to England, was led by all-rounder Richie Benaud. The tour was a five-Test series, with Test matches played at Edgbaston, Lord's, Headingley, Old Trafford and The Oval. England were led by Peter May.

Australia won the series 2-1 to retain The Ashes.

The decisive moment in the series was in the 4th Test at Old Trafford. The series was locked at 1-1 after three Tests. On the final morning, England was in the driving seat, with Australia nine wickets down and only 162 ahead. Australia's last-wicket pair of Alan Davison and Graham McKenzie added 98 more runs to extend their lead. In England's run chase, a bright 76 from Ted Dexter got them into a winning position. Enter Richie Benaud who tore through the English batting to finish with 6-70, steering his side to a famous 54-run victory to retain the Ashes.

Key Performers

• Richie Benaud (Australia): Captain and leg-spinner; led from the front with tactical brilliance and key wickets, including 6/70 in the 4th Test.
• Alan Davidson (Australia): All-rounder; crucial contributions with both bat and ball, including match-turning performances in the 2nd and 4th Tests.
• Bill Lawry (Australia): Reliable opener; anchored Australia’s innings in key victories, especially at Lord’s.
• Bob Simpson (Australia): Solid batting displays in the first Test; provided stability in the middle order.
• Garth McKenzie (Australia): Fast bowler; took vital wickets and supported Davidson in the 4th Test winning partnership.
• Fred Trueman (England): Exceptional pace bowler; 11-wicket haul at Headingley led England to their sole victory in the series.
• Peter May (England): Captain and top-order batsman; notable innings included 71 in the 5th Test, keeping England competitive in draws.
• Geoff Pullar (England): Scored vital runs in the first Test to help secure a draw.

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