The storied rivalry of English & Australia teams is illuminated by unforgettable players. Within, enthusiasts share their most cherished stars across the men's Ashes history.
The Pugnacious Bairstow
When asked about a favourite player, the pick falls on the combative Jonny Bairstow. His career in Ashes contests perfectly encapsulates the highs and lows of an English career. It started in 2013, where he sacrificed his attacking instincts to dig in with Ian Bell. That winter, he stepped up to replace wicketkeeper the injured Matt Prior, facing the formidable Mitchell Johnson having no first-class cricket in months.
He had an Ashes-winning comeback in 2015 and remains the only English player with two Ashes hundreds on Australian soil since 2011, a feat accomplished in spite of intense media attention. A difficult campaign followed in the 2019 Ashes, although there was a vital contribution at Headingley assisting the famous run chase by Stokes and Leach. After returning in the 2023 series, a magnificent unbeaten 99 in Manchester would have been denied a series-turning status due to inclement rain.
Syd Barnes
Few bowlers command such reverence like the wonderful Syd Barnes. His figures of 13 for 163 in 80 gruelling overs during the 1901-02 Ashes Test remains as testament to his genius. It's fascinating to ponder how much more he could have accomplished if he were an easier character to manage. Boasting a staggering haul of 6,229 wickets at a cost of 8.33, he is regarded by many as the finest bowler. Studying his records as a youth proved completely captivating. He was a glorious bastard, truly incomparable. As MCC secretary Billy Griffith: “The extraordinary thing about him was that everyone who played with him considered him the best there was. Never was there a single doubt in their minds.”
The Charismatic Richie Benaud
To countless fans, the ultimate Ashes cricketer is the iconic Richie Benaud. Starting high school in 1961 coincided with the Ashes series, and the excitement was provided by the dashing Australian captain. He didn't look from the rest; he possessed style and audacity, a stark contrast to the seemingly traditional approach. An eloquent, charismatic leader who came known for positive, exciting cricket.
Vivid recollections of that summer, where a permanent passion with cricket was formed, centre on the final day of Old Trafford. Glued to the broadcast, the viewer saw England require 256 to win. A good start had Ted Dexter play a widely acclaimed one of the great Ashes innings. However his dismissal for 76, caught by wicketkeeper Wally Grout bowled by Benaud. Optimism persisted with skipper Peter May coming at the crease. Benaud bowled saw May deflect it to leg. Next up, Benaud bowled again outside the pads, it turned viciously from the rough and hit the stumps. The captain was out for a duck, the hush palpable. Benaud won the match with figures six for 70 , thus Australia kept the Ashes. A moment of mixed emotion—desperate for an English victory but marvelling at an undeniable champion.
The Indefatigable Ian Botham
Simply put, he is England's finest England cricketer. Indefatigable, inspirational, exceptional. For Headingley 1981, Old Trafford 1981, the triumphant tour of Australia, and his iconic retort about Merv Hughes. A hero both for his charity work but also his immense fortitude.
The Underrated Harry Boyle
History often overlooks figures like Harry Boyle, who should rightfully be in the top 100 key cricketers of the rivalry. He was Fred Spofforth's bowling partner in the iconic 1882 match, his role proved just as crucial as Spofforth's to secure victory. In fact, it was Boyle who dismissed Edmund Peate to win the match. While Fred Spofforth is celebrated as the pioneer of pace bowling, Boyle proved humble , retiring, always putting the team first. This modesty has led to his memory becoming somewhat forgotten, despite he was highly regarded as a pivotal figure in cricket's history.
Don Bradman
The answer must be Don Bradman. Whilst leg-spinner Shane Warne stands as a giant, the monumental volume of scoring Bradman accumulated against the old foe, coupled with his shrewd captaincy, establishes his status not just as a great player but as the definitive answer. A batting average just shy of ninety, two scores over 300, and a brilliant double-hundred following an ingenious decision to reverse the lineup and shield his senior players from a treacherous pitch at the MCG in 1937.
Though not alive in his time, any cricket fan becomes familiar about his deeds from the early 1930s , particularly, the 1948 tour. Whilst most remember his last innings zero that denied him a 100+ average, some treasure images of his practice relentlessly using a water tank, or seeing him withstand the vicious Bodyline tactics to still average with a 56 average in a notoriously difficult series for batsmen. He remains the greatest batsman for countless fans.
Mike Brearley
He took the craft of leadership, with its critical role, to a new level. He epitomised his era by demonstrating that winning in the Ashes, especially in Australia, required more than effort or brute force. He inspired through thoughtful, astute guidance, fostering a culture where his players' abilities could flourish. His understanding of the game, the match state, and player psyches excelled precisely when a change in momentum was required.
His was a beautifully subtle, nuanced approach {that challenged|contradict
