Ashes all time combined XI

The Ashes series, contested between England and Australia, has witnessed some of the greatest cricketers in the history of the sport. Selecting an all-time combined XI for the Ashes is a challenging task, given the abundance of talent and legendary performances. However, this proposed lineup comprises players who have left an indelible mark on the series, combining exceptional skill, talent, and outstanding statistics.

Top-order – Herbert Sutcliffe, Sir Jack Hobbs, Don Bradman

At the top of the order, the opening duo consists of Herbert Sutcliffe and Sir Jack Hobbs. Sutcliffe, known for his unflappable temperament, played 54 Ashes matches, accumulating 4,555 runs at an average of 66.85, including 16 centuries. Hobbs, one of the greatest batsmen in history, amassed 3,636 Ashes runs at an average of 54.26, including 12 centuries. His elegance and technical prowess made him a formidable opponent for any bowler.

In the pivotal number three position stands the incomparable Don Bradman, whose statistics alone speak volumes about his greatness. Bradman scored an astonishing 5,028 Ashes runs at an average of 89.78, including 19 centuries. His incredible consistency and insatiable hunger for runs make him an automatic choice in any all-time XI.

Middle-order, all-rounder – Steve Smith, Steve Waugh, Keith Miller, Ian Botham

 The middle order features the dynamic duo of Steve Smith and Steve Waugh. Smith, with his unorthodox yet effective style, has amassed 2,299 Ashes runs at an average of 82.10, including nine centuries. His ability to dominate bowling attacks and score big runs in pressure situations has solidified his place as one of the modern greats. Waugh, known for his gritty determination and leadership, accumulated 3,200 Ashes runs at an average of 58.17, including 10 centuries. His doggedness in difficult conditions and ability to rescue Australia from challenging situations make him an invaluable asset.

Adding depth and versatility to the middle order is the inclusion of Keith Miller and Ian Botham as all-rounders. Miller, a true match-winner, scored 1,734 runs at an average of 48.16 and claimed 87 wickets with his pace bowling. His ability to turn the game on its head with both bat and ball makes him an ideal choice for an all-time Ashes XI. Botham, renowned for his larger-than-life personality, amassed 1,636 runs at an average of 33.54 and took a staggering 148 wickets. His exceptional performances in the 1981 Ashes series, famously known as “Botham’s Ashes,” where he scored runs and claimed wickets in equal measure, make him a legendary figure in the history of the rivalry.

Bowlers – Shane Warne, Dennis Lillee, Bob Willis, Glenn McGrath

In the bowling department, the quartet of Shane Warne, Dennis Lillee, Bob Willis, and Glenn McGrath provides an exceptional combination of spin and pace. Warne, the greatest leg-spinner of all time, claimed a remarkable 195 Ashes wickets at an average of 23.25, bamboozling batsmen with his prodigious turn and guile. Lillee, an embodiment of raw pace and aggression, took 167 Ashes wickets at an average of 21.79, striking fear into the hearts of English batsmen. Willis, with his ability to generate relentless bounce and movement, captured 123 Ashes wickets at an average of 24.37.

Finally, McGrath, the epitome of consistency and accuracy, claimed 157 Ashes wickets at an average of 20.92, relentlessly probing batsmen with his impeccable line and length.

This all-time Ashes combined XI is a formidable lineup, comprising players who have not only excelled statistically but also showcased exceptional skill, determination, and the zeal to win games on their own.