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The Ashes series between Australia and England is one of the oldest and most celebrated rivalries in the history of cricket. It has produced some of the most thrilling and intense moments in the sport. For over a century, legendary players from both nations have risen to the occasion, defining their careers through performances in this iconic contest. With countless records set and broken, the Ashes remain the pinnacle of Test cricket competition, with players etching their names in history.
Adam Gilchrist names his all-time Ashes XI
In a recent chat with Cricket.com, former Australian wicketkeeper Adam Gilchrist named his all-time Ashes XI, comprising some of the greatest players who excelled in this high-pressure series. While many of Gilchrist’s selections were expected, his choice of Shane Warne as captain over other notable leaders raised eyebrows, adding a unique touch to his lineup.
Star openers
Gilchrist chose the explosive duo of Matthew Hayden and Justin Langer to open the batting for his all-time Ashes XI. The pair was known for their aggressive yet calculated approach, consistently giving Australia strong starts during their Ashes campaigns.
Hayden made 1461 runs in Ashes matches, averaging 58.93 with five centuries. His combination of brute strength and elegant stroke play made him a nightmare for English bowlers. Similarly, Langer accumulated 1658 runs at an impressive average of 56.62 in Ashes contests, with five centuries. Langer’s determination and resilience often wore down the opposition, and his partnership with Hayden became one of the most productive in Ashes history.
Dynamic middle order featuring Don Bradman
Gilchrist’s middle order is filled with cricketing giants, starting with Don Bradman, widely regarded as the greatest batter of all time. Bradman dominated Ashes series like no one else, amassing 5028 runs at an astonishing average of 89.78, including 19 centuries. His Ashes record remains unmatched to this day, with ‘The Don’ single-handedly demolishing England’s bowling attacks throughout his career.
Ricky Ponting, another Ashes stalwart, compiled 2476 runs at an average of 44.21, including eight centuries. His ability to play both defensively and aggressively made him a key figure in Australia’s dominance over England during his era.
Steve Smith, the modern-day batting sensation, has already cemented his place in Ashes history. With 3417 runs at an outstanding average of 56.01, Smith’s 12 centuries reflect his hunger for runs and ability to adapt in challenging conditions.
Michael Hussey, known for his calmness under pressure, played pivotal roles in Australia’s middle order. Hussey scored 1304 Ashes runs at an average of 59.27, with four centuries. His stability and reliability added immense value to his team in crunch situations.
Gilchrist selected Brad Haddin as the wicketkeeper for his all-time Ashes XI. Haddin, who took over from Gilly, made his mark in Ashes history with his exceptional skills behind the stumps and with the bat. Haddin scored 1366 runs in Ashes contests at an impressive average of 41.31, including three centuries. His Ashes batting performances were crucial, especially during the 2013-14 series when he made several lower-order contributions to help Australia dominate the series.
Also READ: Aussie legend Adam Gilchrist names his three greatest wicket-keeper batters
Brilliant bowling attack
Gilchrist’s Ashes XI features an enviable bowling attack led by Shane Warne, who is not only the captain but also the greatest leg-spinner to grace the Ashes stage. Warne’s influence with the ball and tactical mind makes him the perfect leader of this team.
Warne holds the record for the most wickets in Ashes history with 195 wickets at an average of 23.25. His ability to outfox the English batters, particularly in pivotal moments, made him a match-winner. Dennis Lillee was known for his fiery pace and relentless aggression. He claimed 128 Ashes wickets at an average of 23.32, often delivering crucial breakthroughs for his team.
Glenn McGrath, a master of line and length, terrorized England with his remarkable consistency. McGrath took 157 Ashes wickets at an average of 20.92, cementing his place as one of the most successful bowlers in Ashes history. Mitchell Johnson rounds off the attack with his raw pace and aggression. Johnson’s memorable 2013-14 Ashes series, where he dismantled England’s batting, was a highlight of his career. He claimed 87 wickets in Ashes matches at an average of 25.81.
