5 of the lowest points for Australia in Ashes history
When one looks at the recent history of the Ashes, stretching back to around a quarter of a century, then there is no doubt that Australia have largely dominated the storied rivalry. That said, the Ashes is now a far more balanced rivalry ever since England's win in 2005.
Australia have had their fair share of disappointments over the course of this tournament that dates back to 1882 and some of them have been extremely gutting for the team and the fans alike.
Embarrassing collapses, crippling innings defeats leading to series losses and losing games from seemingly unbeatable positions, Australian teams have suffered through it all. Here is a look at 5 of the lowest points for Australia in the history of the Ashes.
#5 3rd Test at the Oval, 1896
This might seem a bit pre-historic since this match belongs to a different era but as far as Australia's low points in the Ashes are concerned, their capitulation in the 3rd Test at the Oval is right up there. In this 3-Test series, England won the 1st match, at Lord's, but Australia squared the series at Manchester, turning the game at the Oval into a decider.
Australia looked to be in control when they dismissed England for 145 in the first innings but they could score only 119 in reply. However, England were shot out for 84 in their second innings and Australia needed to score only 111 runs to win the series. That is when they suffered one of their worst collapses in history (3rd lowest of all time for Australia and 11th lowest overall) to be dismissed for 44 in 26 overs.
England's left-arm orthodox spinner Bobby Peale proved unplayable as the picked up 6 wickets and condemned Australia to one of their worst ever defeats.