Three best Ashes Tests at Headingley
Ashes fever has once again taken over the world as Australia and England have ignited the oldest rivalry in international cricket with an action-packed series. In the 140-year-long history of the Ashes, fans have witnessed several memorable matches which kept them on the edge of their seats. The Headingley stadium in Leeds has witnessed numerous remarkable Tests in Ashes history and has become an integral part of the series’ folklore. As England and Australia add another chapter to the rich history of Headingley in the third Test, let’s take a look at the three best Ashes Tests played at the venue:
4th Test, Ashes 2001, August 16-20
Australia had once again asserted their dominance on England having won the first three matches of the series and retaining the Ashes. In the fourth Test, Captain Steve Waugh declared the innings late on Day 4 to force a result, setting England a target of 315 runs to win. However, the famed Australian bowling attack were blown away by a breathtaking knock by Mark Butcher who scored 173* (227) and helped his side win the match by six wickets. As a result, England managed to save themselves from a whitewash and saved their pride.
3rd Test, Ashes 2019, August 22-25
England all-rounder Ben Stokes etched his name in cricketing history with golden words during the year 2019. Stokes first led his side to a thrilling win in the ODI World Cup 2019 final and later played one of the greatest knocks ever in Test cricket to keep hopes in the Ashes alive. After being bundled out for just 67 in the first innings, England were set a target of 359 runs. However, they were staring down the barrel at 286/9 but Stokes had other ideas. The southpaw played a magnificent counter-attacking knock (135) to script a miraculous victory for his side and level the series 1-1.
3rd Test, Ashes 1981, July 16-21
Being 0-1 behind in the series, England were asked to follow on in the third Test being 227 runs behind Australia’s first-innings score. Ian Botham led his team’s fightback with a magnificent 149* (148) and helped them set a target of 130 to Australia in the fourth innings. Following Botham’s heroics, Bob Willis rose to the occasion and bundled out Australia for 111 with his spectacular spell of 8/43 in 18.1 overs. As a result, England won the match by 18 runs and Botham was awarded Player of the Match for scoring 199 runs and picking 7 wickets across both innings. Due to his sensational performance, the game is also famously known as ‘Botham’s Test’.
