The Ashes contest between England and Australia has meant more than cricket for a long time. It is a fiercely contested, emotional, and traditional battle. Over the years, we have witnessed amazing achievements in the competition, but it has been replete with moments of fiery controversy that reverberated throughout the cricketing community.

From dubious tactics, wickets that incited commotion, or farcical events off the field, the Ashes has consistently raised the level of debate over the "spirit of the game." These incidents brought about international debate, were major catalysts for changes in playing laws, and became incendiary chapters in cricket's oldest rivalry. In this article, we will remember some of the most memorable and controversial moments in the Ashes;

1. The Bodyline Series (1932–33)

The Bodyline series is generally seen as the most notorious embarrassment for the cricket world. England employed aggressive leg-side field placements and a relentless short-pitched bowling assault to target Don Bradman. While the Bodyline approach was legal at the time, it was deemed dangerous and not in keeping with the spirit of the game. The whole incident escalated to the point that it almost soured relations between England and Australia, and it was a catalyst for major changes in cricket rules. 

2. Dennis Lillee’s Aluminium Bat Incident (1979–80)

Not too long ago we experienced one of the strangest happenings in the history of the Ashes as Dennis Lillee walked onto the field wielding an aluminium bat. England protested it was damaging the ball and while it was not against the rules, he was asked to change bats. Lillee threw the bat down with disgust and the event became an exciting and heated moment, that we will never forget.

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3. Jonny Bairstow’s Controversial Stumping (2023)

Last summer in the 2023 Lord's Test, it happened when Jonny Bairstow walked out of his crease after thinking the ball was dead. Alex Carey threw down the stumps and Bairstow was given out. The dismissal was within the laws of the game, however it lead to worldwide debate on the "spirit of cricket" - divided fans and former players alike and it led, and continues to lead to discussion about the "spirit of the game."

4. Michael Clarke’s Sledging Outburst (2013–14)

While standing near the pitch, Australian captain Michael Clarke threatened James Anderson by saying, "Get ready for a broken f**ing arm."* This incident encapsulated the intense rivalry of the Ashes, while also highlighting the limits of sportsmanship. It has proven to be one of the most scrutinized and replayed instances of sledging in cricket.

5. Tim Paine’s Sexting Scandal (2021)

Before the Ashes in 2021–22 series began, Australian captain Tim Paine resigned after previous sexting scandal resurfaced. His sudden departure created chaos and won a major story from that series. Off-field happenings have dominated the discussion and there are renewed conversations about what counts as legitimate leadership and accountability in cricket.