The story of The Ashes starts in 1882, when the now famous obituary of English cricket appearing in The Sporting Times following Australia’s first ever Test victory over England 1882:
 
“In affectionate remembrance of English Cricket, which died at The Oval on 29th August, 1882. Deeply lamented by a large circle of sorrowing friends and acquaintances. RIP. N.B. the body will be cremated and the ashes taken to Australia”
 
When England travelled to Australia in 1882/3, they were now competing for ‘The Ashes’, under the captaincy of Ivo Bligh. However, the term fell out of use until the 20th century.
 
The equally famous Ashes urn was first presented to Bligh during the 1882/3 series, which England won 2-1. Legend has it that the ashes of a burnt bail are contained within the urn, which is now housed at Lord’s and because of damage, a replica urn is now handed to the victorious team at the end of each series.