1956
The Ashes⁠

How England performed

Holders after a 3–1 win in the previous series, England kept the Ashes on home soil in 1956 with a 2–1 victory. The opening Test at Nottingham was drawn after England declared twice, on 217 for 8 and 188 for 3, with Australia 120 for 3 at the end. Australia then went ahead at Lord's, London, where England were dismissed for 171 and 186 and lost by 185 runs.

The response was emphatic. At Leeds England made 325 and bowled Australia out for 143 and 140 to win by an innings and 42 runs, and at Manchester they went further, posting 459 and dismissing Australia for 84 and 205 for victory by an innings and 170 runs. The final Test at The Oval, London was drawn with Australia on 27 for 5 in their second innings, leaving England with two wins, two draws and one defeat.

Head coach

None (the first was appointed in 1986)

Captain

Peter May

Record

P5 W2 D2 L1