Best Ashes innings of all time
The Ashes series between Australia and England is the ultimate symbol of cricketing pride and rivalry. Since 1882, this match has produced some of the most iconic performances in the history of the sport: innings of courage, glory and greatness. Here’s a look at the top 10 greatest Ashes innings of all time, ranked from 2025.
1. Sir Donald Bradman – 334 runs (Headingley, 1930)
Perhaps the greatest Ashes innings ever, Sir Donald Bradman’s 334 at Headingley remains a timeless masterpiece. He scored 309 runs in one day – a record that still stands. His knock took Australia to 566 and an emphatic win, heralding Bradman’s arrival as cricket’s ultimate legend.
2. Ian Botham – 149 runs (Headingley, 1981)*
In the 1981 Headingley Test, known as “Botham’s Test”, Sir Ian Botham rescued England from the brink of defeat. Are 149 off 148 balls* turned the match on its head and led England to one of the most miraculous victories in Ashes history.
3. Ben Stokes – 135 runs (Headingley, 2019)*
Weather in Headingley, Ben Stokes caused a knock for the ages. Chasing 359, England were 286/9 when Stokes was heroic 135 off 219 balls* victory taken from Australia. This innings ranks as one of the best ever in the modern era of Test cricket.
4. Kevin Pietersen – 158 runs (The Oval, 2005)
Kevin Pietersen’s 158 in the 2005 Ashes final at The Oval helped England reclaim the urn after 18 years. Faced with a fierce Aussie pace attack, Pietersen counter-attacked with flair and confidence, sealing his place among England’s best.
5. Mark Butcher – 173 runs (Headingley, 2001)*
Mark Butcher’s unbeaten 173 came during a dramatic fourth-innings chase of 315 against a powerful Australian bowling line-up. His calm and calculated innings secured an historic victory in England and remains one of the greatest Ashes chases.
6. Steve Waugh – 157 runs (The Oval, 2001)*
Steve Waugh battled injury to score 157 not out, showing his trademark resilience and mental toughness. His innings helped Australia post a huge total and seal the series 3-2.
7. Ricky Ponting – 156 runs (Old Trafford, 2005)
As the match slipped by, Ricky Ponting’s 156 saved Australia from defeat at Old Trafford. His gritty innings kept the series alive, epitomizing Ponting’s fighting spirit.
8. Alastair Cook – 235 runs (Gabba, 2010)*
Alastair Cook’s monumental 235 off 428 balls* showed discipline and patience. His knock helped England secure a draw and later win the series 3-1 – their first Ashes victory in Australia in 24 years.
9. Stan McCabe – 232 runs (Trent Bridge, 1938)
Stan McCabe’s 232 was an attacking masterclass, scoring 127 runs in one session. Even Don Bradman called it one of the best innings he had ever witnessed.
10. Steve Smith – 144 runs (Edgbaston, 2019)
Makes his comeback after a one-year suspension Steve Smith’s 144 against a fiery English attack marked his redemption. He single-handedly took Australia from 122/8 to 284 and set the tone for a memorable series.
Conclusion
From Bradman’s dominance to Stokes’ defiance, this innings defines the spirit of the Ashes: courage, class and an unyielding will to win. Each knock is a timeless reminder of why the Ashes remains cricket’s most cherished rivalry.
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