After every Ashes series, we usually select the top 10 moments that shaped the outcome. However, this summer was filled with so many pivotal moments that we could easily pick 100. Nevertheless, we have settled on 15 moments that truly defined the series, symbolized by Ben Stokes’ incredible sixes. Let’s dive into them:
1) Chris Woakes takes a gamble and it pays off: Woakes made a bold decision to skip the Indian Premier League and play a few Championship games to get “red-ball fit.” This choice proved to be invaluable as it led him to Ashes glory.
2) Stokes’ declaration of intent: Stokes made a powerful statement on the first day at Edgbaston when he declared England’s innings at 393 for eight, with Joe Root still at the crease. This declaration set the tone for the series and without it, a draw might have been the result, which Stokes despises.
3) Stuart Broad’s costly no-ball: In the first two Tests, England’s fielding performance was lackluster, including 12 missed chances and conceding 118 extras. One of the most detrimental mistakes was Broad’s no-ball that allowed Usman Khawaja to continue his innings. This missed opportunity had a significant impact on the match.
4) Root’s mistake in the first Test: When Root took a stunning catch to dismiss Alex Carey, it seemed like the first Test was over. However, Root decided to keep himself on as a bowler, allowing Pat Cummins to hit two crucial sixes and change the course of the match.
5) Stokes’ regrettable dropped catch: Stokes’ only regret of the summer was dropping Nathan Lyon at Edgbaston. This missed catch allowed Australia to gain momentum and put England in a tight spot.
6) Lyon’s injury hampers Australia: During the second Test at Lord’s, Lyon injured himself while attempting to catch a top-edged hook shot. This injury proved to be detrimental to Australia, as they missed Lyon’s bowling expertise and wicket-taking ability.
7) Controversial stumping mars England’s performance: The controversial stumping of Jonny Bairstow by Carey marked a significant turning point in the series. England’s response to this incident united the country and fueled their determination to win the next Test.
8) Australia’s tactic meeting slows down Stokes: After being hammered by Stokes’ sixes, Australia’s senior players held a meeting to discuss their tactics. They decided to bowl wide off stump and avoid length balls, limiting Stokes’ scoring opportunities. This strategy successfully slowed down Stokes’ onslaught.
9) Mark Wood adds fire to England’s attack: Wood’s fiery spell in his first appearance of the series at Headingley stunned Australia’s batters and gave England a much-needed boost. Additionally, Wood’s aggressive batting provided a spark for another Stokes’ rampage.
10) Moeen Ali discovers control when it matters: Moeen, known for his lack of control, surprised everyone with a thrifty spell at Headingley. He bowled with precision and took crucial wickets, reducing Australia’s chances of building a series-winning lead.
11) Moeen’s promotion to No. 3 brings batting balance: Moeen’s selfless decision to move up to No. 3 allowed Harry Brook to return to his favored position. This change provided much-needed balance to England’s batting lineup and resulted in Brook’s impressive innings of 75.
12) Key review sets up Zak Crawley’s comeback: After being given out lbw, Crawley reviewed the decision and replays showed the ball was missing leg stump. This review gave Crawley a second chance, and he capitalized on it by scoring a brilliant 189.
13) Jonny Bairstow’s dropped catch affects Australia’s momentum: Carey’s dip in form after the Bairstow stumping incident might have been influenced by the pressure and attention surrounding it. In the Oval Test, Carey dropped an easy catch off Brook, who went on to score a blistering 85.
These 15 moments capture the essence of an intense Ashes series filled with highs and lows, showcasing the skills, strategies, and emotions of both teams.
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