Great Ashes Battles describes thirteen of the most gripping and controversial Anglo-Australian test matches played between 1877 and 2003. The great matches are selected to achieve a balance in period, place and outcome, and are all characterised by their fluctuating fortunes, epic performances, close finishes and absorbing subplots on and off the field. The structure of the book is chronological, and the matches are set within the context of Anglo-Australian test cricket history. In addition to providing incisive match reports and full match scorecards, the book discusses such issues as national versus regional loyalties in both countries, professionalism and amateurism, player dissent, cronyism, selection and captaincy debates, uncovered pitches, slow over rates and intimidatory bowling.