The Ashes: 5 epic sledges from the past

Though cricket is considered a gentlemen’s game, it doesn’t restrict the players from getting involved in some heated banters. The verbal battles among the opponents often add more to the scenario and fetch the attention of the on-lookers.

Amidst a crunch situation in a match wherein both the teams are battling it hard to pull the game, sledging sometimes affects the result of the game. It goes down to disturb the good momentum of the player. Whereas at times it motivates the player to go big and clinch the victory.

The rivalry between England and Australia dates way back in cricketing history. There is probably no scene as intense as when these two teams lock horns with each other for the red-ball games. As the Ashes series is all set to commence from December 8, here’s a look at the epic sledges of the high-profile series so far.

Here are the 5 epic sledges from the Ashes series:

1. ‘Why are you chirping now mate’ – The James Anderson and Mitchell Johnson tussle 

The Ashes series is often renowned for producing unforgettable moments in cricketing history. One such instance that has cemented its place as one of the epic banters between the two strong opponents is that between James Anderson and Mitchell Johnson.

The episode between the two players during the 2010-11 Ashes in Australia holds different regard altogether. On the first day of the third Test match of the series, Mitchell Johnson who was at the non-striker’s end called out Anderson and said, “Why are you chirping now mate, not getting wickets?”.

Anderson who was the highest wicket-taker of the series, soon silenced the opponent as he clean bowled Ryan Harris. After having scalped the wicket, the pacer turned around to Johnson and showed him the ‘shush’ symbol.