Sports · 12 November 2025
The Ashes First Ball: From Death to Rebirth in Cricket's Greatest Rivalry
The Ashes rivalry began in 1882 after Australia’s first Test victory in England, sparking a mock obituary and a tradition where the opening delivery of each series carries deep meaning. Memorable first balls include Mitchell Starc’s dismissal of Rory Burns in 2021-22 and Shane Warne’s famous 1993 delivery to Mike Gatting, which was Warne’s debut Ashes ball and later dubbed the ‘Ball of the Century’. Every series opener reignites this long-standing contest and builds excitement for what follows.
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