The Ashes is one of cricket’s most renowned and fiercely contested rivalries, and its history is replete with enthralling contests. Among the most enthralling moments are victories accomplished with the fewest wickets remaining. This article examines six matches that exemplified the intensity and drama of the Ashes, with a particular emphasis on the 2023 match at Edgbaston where Pat Cummins inscribed his name into Ashes lore.
1901: England, The Oval
In this closely contested match, England defeated Australia by one wicket with one wicket remaining. As England’s last pair, George Hirst and Wilfred Rhodes, battled valiantly to reach the target, the tension was tangible. They held their ground with steel resolve and led England to a thrilling victory.
England, Melbourne, 1907–1908:
Another nail-biting match was played in Melbourne, with England prevailing by a single wicket. Roger Hartigan was the match’s hero, as his unbeaten stroke of 39 was instrumental in England’s victory.
2019 England, Headingley:
England staged a remarkable comeback to overcome Australia by one wicket in a recent Ashes thriller. Ben Stokes performed an extraordinary innings, defying all odds with his heroic unbeaten score of 135 runs. His partnership with Jack Leach will go down in Ashes history eternally.
England, The Oval, 1890:
This Ashes match featured a thrilling contest, which England won by two wickets. Bobby Peel’s exceptional all-around performance, which included a crucial six-wicket haul in Australia’s second innings, paved the way for England’s nail-biting victory.
Australia, Sydney, 1907 and 1908:
Australia triumphed over England by a two-wicket margin after displaying tenacity in a closely contested match. Monty Noble’s magnificent century in Australia’s second innings was the deciding factor in the host team’s unforgettable victory.
2023: Australia, Edgbaston
The contest at Edgbaston in 2023 holds a unique place among these historic triumphs. With his match-winning exploits, Pat Cummins, the Australian spearhead, left an indelible mark on Ashes lore. As the tension increased, Cummins displayed impeccable timing and dexterity by steering the ball past the third baseman and into the boundary ropes. This decisive moment prompted jubilation in the Australian locker room and subdued the home crowd. Not only did the resounding victory give Australia a scintillating 1-0 lead in the series, but it also demonstrated their unwavering resolve and set the stage for an exhilarating Ashes battle.
Closest wins in Ashes (by wickets remaining)
1 – England, The Oval, 1901
1 – England, Melbourne, 1907-08
1 – England, Headingley, 2019
2 – England, The Oval, 1890
2 – Australia, Sydney, 1907-08
2 – Australia, Edgbaston, 2023
