This is arguably the most popular Test Series in cricket, with the rivalry between Australia and England dating back as far as 1882. The two teams face each other roughly every two years, alternating between England and Australia.

Since the 1990’s, English cricket has undergone somewhat of a revival, although that didn’t stop Australia whitewashing the tourists 5-0 in 2006/7. Due to England’s injury problems and the Aussies’ heightened motivation, the 5-0 was a popular bet on the Correct Score market with England friendless in the betting market.

However, the 2005 series in England saw two well-matched teams making virtually every Test an exciting betting proposition, with England eventually running out 2-1 winners. In particular, the 2nd Test saw the In-Play odds swing in favour of each team on several occasions, until England squeezed home by two runs.

Before placing a bet on The Ashes, whether it’s on the series or a particular Test, it’s worth examining the injury situations and the general morale in the camp. Australia came into the 2005 series off the back of some poor performances, while the same could be said of England eighteen months later. It’s also worth bearing in mind that the Aussies were out for revenge in 2006/7 whereas England will have this as motivation next time around.