Tell this Yank about the Ashes Test
By Idlewild
@Idlewild (6090)
United States
December 3, 2006 11:52am CST
I'm an American who listens to BBC radio, and they sometimes mention the Ashes Test. It's been mentioned a few times here on Mylot, but only among people who seem to already know all about it.
All I know is that it's a big international cricket match that seems to involve England and Australia. So here's your chance to educate me:
* Is the match always between these two countries?
* Is it held every year?
* Where does it take place?
* Does it count in international standings, or is it just a "friendly"?
* And more generally, why do cricket matches last several days?
1 person likes this
1 response
@gary236 (83)
•
3 Dec 06
In 1877 when England lost to Australia at the Oval they burned the bails and kept the ashes in an urn. Since then, Australia and England have played for this urn every 18 months in alternate venues eg 2005 England 2006-07 Australia. There are 5 tests in every series now and it counts in the world rankings as much as any other series.
As for the 5 day games - they are only for elite cricketers because they are the greatest examination of one's skills. At domestic level they play 4 and in the last 30 years one day cricket has come in to bring in more crowds. There is also 20/20 - baseball style 3 hour entertainment!
