1972
The Ashes⁠

How England performed

Victory in Australia in 1970–71 had given England the Ashes, and they kept them in 1972 when the home series ended 2–2. They made the stronger start at Manchester, where Australia were dismissed for 142 in their first innings and England won by 89 runs. Australia levelled at Lord's, London, bowling England out for 116 in the second innings and winning by eight wickets.

The third Test at Nottingham was drawn, England batting out to 290 for 4 after Australia declared their second innings on 324 for 4. England went back in front at Leeds, dismissing Australia for 146 and 136 and reaching 21 for 1 to complete a nine-wicket win. Australia took the final Test at The Oval, London by five wickets, reaching 242 for 5 in the fourth innings, but the 2–2 scoreline meant the Ashes stayed with England.

Head coach

None (the first was appointed in 1986)

Captain

Ray Illingworth

Record

P5 W2 D1 L2