Cricket Test Series Trophies Explained
The Ashes, Border-Gavaskar, and other Test series trophies add context and rivalry to cricket — here's what they are and why they matter.
Many of cricket's greatest bilateral Test series are played for named trophies — historical artefacts or symbolic prizes that represent the rivalry between two nations. The most famous is the Ashes urn between England and Australia. These trophies add stakes, ceremony, and narrative to Test cricket beyond the simple win/loss record.
The Ashes — England vs Australia
The Ashes is the oldest and most celebrated rivalry in Test cricket, dating back to 1882. When Australia beat England for the first time on English soil, a mock obituary announced the 'death of English cricket' with its ashes 'burnt and taken to Australia'. The actual Ashes urn — believed to contain the ashes of a bail — is held at Lord's Cricket Ground and never travels with the winning team. Instead, a replica is presented to the winners.
Border-Gavaskar Trophy — India vs Australia
The Border-Gavaskar Trophy, named after Allan Border and Sunil Gavaskar, is contested between India and Australia in bilateral Test series. India dominated it from 2004 to 2023, winning eight consecutive series. Australia reclaimed it in 2023–24 with a 3-1 victory in a gripping five-Test series in India. The BGT is now considered arguably the most important series in world Test cricket.
Other Named Series Trophies
England vs West Indies: The Wisden Trophy. England vs South Africa: The Basil D'Oliveira Trophy. England vs Pakistan: The Cornhill Trophy (informal). India vs West Indies: The Clive Lloyd Trophy. Australia vs South Africa: The Freedom Trophy. New Zealand vs South Africa: The Basil D'Oliveira Trophy (for some series). Each trophy adds heritage and context to what might otherwise be a simple bilateral series.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Ashes in cricket?
The Ashes is the Test cricket series between England and Australia, dating back to 1882. It is cricket's oldest and most celebrated rivalry, named after a mock obituary for English cricket.
What is the Border-Gavaskar Trophy?
The Border-Gavaskar Trophy is the Test series between India and Australia, named after cricketing legends Allan Border and Sunil Gavaskar. India dominated it from 2004 to 2023.