Author(s): David Frith

Sport

Since the first Test Match between England and Australia was staged in Melbourne in 1877, generations of cricket lovers have been thrilled and beguiled by what is surely the greatest sporting encounter between two nations in the modern age. This was never more evident than in the extraordinary 2005 series that saw England regain the ashes. "Australia versus England" is the product of vast research. It incorporates over 1330 pictures, from the beginning in 1877 through to the 2006-07 series when Australia regained the Ashes 5-0. All the major scores are here, with match reports and a treasure chest of illustrations from the 316 Test matches between the two rivals. This book has enchanted young and old since its first edition in 1977 coincided with the never-to-be-forgotten Melbourne Centenary Test. It is now in its 12th edition, and more than ever it remains a gem for all who savour the game of cricket, its history and its drama.