Watch: Glenn McGrath shows Kevin Pietersen who is the boss

The Ashes has been perhaps the most fierce rivalry in cricket history. The introduction of bodyline bowling was completely to stop the great Don Bradman. However, there is a greater significance in the context of modern day cricket. The 2005 edition of the Ashes, a series that turned out to be turning point for the England side showcased the aggression, the rivalry and the intent of the England cricket team.

The first Test itself showed the determination of the England team in the face of adversity.  The England skipper Michael Vaughan and his lieutenant Steve Harmison remained unmoved as a streak of blood flowed down the cheek of Australian skipper Ricky Ponting. While this incident began the infamous ‘chin music’ war, it sparked off a battle that is significant to this day. As Shane Warne puts it, “All we wanted to do was to play cricket and it was drilled into us at an early age, don’t let the pompous getaway.”

The 2013 ashes down under saw the unfortunate Brits well and truly in the firing line. Mitchell Johnson counted his England bunnies one by one as he dismissed them with pace and ferocity.

Kevin Pietersen and Glenn McGrath have been a small yet significant part of the rivalry between Australia and England. Having been part of numerous battles over the years, one particular battle stands out. With England on 179/4 in the 40^th over, Pietersen had decided that it was time to tee off. However, the experience of Glenn McGrath came to the fore as he sensed Pietersen’s intention to dance down the wicket. McGrath banged the ball in short. Pietersen, who misread it, paid the price as the ball clattered into his ribs. Pietersen threw himself to the ground in agony, without any sympathy or concern on the face of Glenn McGrath.

Watch: Glenn McGrath shows Kevin Pietersen who is the boss