What is the name of the trophy awarded to the winner of the Ashes series?

The trophy awarded to the winner of the Ashes series is known as "The Ashes urn" or simply "The Ashes." The Ashes is one of the most renowned and historic rivalries in cricket, contested between England and Australia.

The origins of The Ashes can be traced back to the 1882-1883 Test series when Australia secured their first-ever Test victory on English soil at The Oval in London. A mock obituary published in the English newspaper, The Sporting Times, lamented the "death of English cricket" and humorously stated that "the body will be cremated, and the ashes taken to Australia."

The concept of The Ashes captured the public's imagination, and subsequent Test series between England and Australia were referred to as battles to regain or retain the Ashes. In 1883, a small terracotta urn, believed to contain the ashes of a burnt cricket bail, was presented to England captain Ivo Bligh during a tour of Australia. The urn is said to be a symbol of the ashes of English cricket and the desire to reclaim them.

The Ashes urn remains at the Lord's Cricket Ground in London, the headquarters of the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC). The urn itself is of significant historical value and is not presented to the winning team. Instead, a replica Ashes urn, known as the Ashes trophy, is presented to the victorious team.

The Ashes series is traditionally contested over five Test matches, with the teams taking turns hosting the series. The rivalry has produced memorable moments, legendary players, and fierce battles over the years. The series is highly anticipated by cricket fans from both nations and holds a special place in the cricketing calendar.

The Ashes is not only a prestigious trophy but also a symbol of the enduring cricketing rivalry between England and Australia. It represents the long-standing history and intense competition between the two nations, making it one of the most iconic trophies in the world of cricket.

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