The 2005 Ashes: The Greatest Test Series Ever Played
A complete account of the 2005 Ashes series — England's first Ashes victory in 18 years, featuring five matches of extraordinary drama, career-defining performances from Flintoff, Warne, Pietersen, and Lee, and why it is considered the greatest Test series ever played.
Context: 18 Years of Hurt
England had not won the Ashes since 1987. By 2005, Australia had won eight consecutive Ashes series. England had undergone a transformation under Michael Vaughan's captaincy: an aggressive batting lineup featuring Pietersen (in his first Ashes) and Andrew Flintoff; Simon Jones — whose reverse swing at pace was the series' decisive technical weapon.
The Five Matches
Lord's: Australia won by 239 runs. Edgbaston: England won by 2 runs — the third-closest finish in Test history. Australia needed 107 to win with 10 wickets; were bowled out for 168. Old Trafford: Drawn — Ponting batted 5 hours with a broken thumb. Trent Bridge: England won by 3 wickets. The Oval: England secured the draw 2–1 as Pietersen scored 158 with a broken thumb.
Frequently asked questions
What happened to Glenn McGrath before the Edgbaston Test in 2005?
Glenn McGrath stepped on a cricket ball during pre-match warm-up at Edgbaston and twisted his ankle, ruling him out of the 2nd Test. Without their most dangerous bowler, Australia's attack was significantly weakened. England won that match by 2 runs — one of the margins that swung the series.