About this episode
First of a five part series highlighting great Ashes Test matches through history. Narrated by Simon Hughes, this first episode tells the story of the epic 1882 Oval Test which signifies the birth of the Ashes. In it 'the Demon' Frederick Spofforth is irked by the antics of WG Grace and torpedoes the England batting for just 77 to give Australia their historic first victory in England by 7 runs. It prompted the mock obituary in the Sporting Times mourning the death of English cricket, and set in motion 146 years of intense rivalry, and counting. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices