The Greatest Rivalries in Cricket History
Throughout history, cricket fields around the world have hosted some great battles between elite teams and determined individuals; battles filled with incredible skill, unforgettable drama and moments of controversy. Here is an in depth look at some of the great rivalries that have shaped the sport today.
The Ashes: England vs Australia
Arguably one of the most well regarded rivalries in all of sport, dating back to 1882 when Australia claimed a shock win over England at the Oval prompting the mocking line that English Cricket had died and the “body will be cremated and the ashes taken to Australia”. After this the Ashes was born, and therefore so too was one of the smallest trophy in sports history!
Memorable Moments:
- Don Bradman’s dominance (England being unable to win the trophy until Bradman had retired)
- Ben Stoke’s incredible Headingley innings in 2019.
India vs Pakistan
There are few rivalries in sport as emotionally charged as this. There is a complex history between the 2 in terms of politics and that regularly spills out onto the cricket field. There is no love lost between the two sides and games featuring the two always deliver. When the two sides meet, they no longer crave victory - they depend on it.
Memorable Moments:
- Iconic 2007 T20 World Cup Final where India just edged it over Pakistan
- Pakistan’s dominant win over India in the 2017 Champions Trophy Final
South Africa vs Australia
This is two cricketing gods battling it out for supremacy, arguably the two best cricketing nations of all time. The rivalry is fuelled by skill, aggression and the hunger to win, making this rivalry one of the fiercest in the sport.
Memorable Moments
“Sandpaper Gate” engulfed the cricketing world in 2018 as Australian players were found to be tampering with the balls to give themselves an advantage. This sent shockwaves through the cricketing world and only added fuel to the fire.
In 2006 South Africa chased down Australia’s seemingly uncatchable total 434 and won the game by one-wicket, completely redefining what is possible in the sport.
