Short History Of... The Ashes
9 snips
Dec 1, 2025 Simon Wilde, cricket correspondent for the Sunday Times and author, offers insightful commentary on the legendary Ashes rivalry between England and Australia. He shares how a satirical obituary in 1882 sparked this iconic contest and highlights the contrasting cricket cultures: England's gentleman amateurs versus Australia's meritocratic approach. Wilde discusses the impact of wars, the emergence of cricket legends like Don Bradman, and modern challenges, while unraveling why the Ashes continue to captivate fans even today.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Origin Of The Ashes Joke
- Reginald Shirley Brooks drafted a satirical obituary after England lost at the Oval in 1882.
- He added that “the body will be cremated and the ashes taken to Australia,” sparking the Ashes legend.
The Urn Presented In Australia
- After an English defeat in Australia, locals presented captain Ivo Bligh a small urn said to contain the ashes of English cricket.
- The urn later became the rivalry's physical emblem and lives in Lord's Museum.
Class Shaped Early Team Cultures
- Class differences shaped early England teams while Australia selected by merit.
- Simon Wilde explains that Australia's classless selection fostered stronger team spirit and cohesion.
