5 greatest moments in Ashes history
Over the years, the Ashes has witnessed legendary spells, stunning centuries, and drama that ran over five days yet came down to the final ball.
1. Kevin Pietersen vs Mitchell Johnson, Ashes 2013-14:
The 2013-14 Ashes Boxing Day Test at the MCG witnessed one of the most heated on-field clashes in cricket as Kevin Pietersen and Mitchell Johnson breathed fire. England were looking to save the match when Pietersen, batting on 39, repeatedly backed away from the crease during Johnson’s run-up, citing movement near the sightscreen. Johnson, who was frustrated by the repeated actions, threw the ball towards Pietersen and stormed down the pitch, triggering a verbal exchange.
Notably, umpires had to step in to separate the pair as tempers flared. Johnson later revealed he thrived on such confrontations, insisting Pietersen was too focused on the crowd rather than the game. This was not their first go at each other, as Johnson had previously admitted he once considered punching Pietersen during the 2009 Ashes after personal digs crossed the line. The left-arm pacer had a memorable 2013-14 Ashes as Australia not only whitewashed the series 5-0, but Johnson was named the Player of the Series for picking 37 wickets.
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