It’s been one of the hardest fought series in the history of cricket, and the recently-concluded edition of the Ashes was no different.
Australia won the first Test at Edgbaston by 251 runs, the next Test at Lord's was drawn before England drew level with a one-wicket win in a thrilling third Test at Headingley. Australia won the fourth Test at Old Trafford by 185 runs, before England registered 135-run win in the fifth and final game at the Oval on Sunday, 15 September, to draw the series 2-2.
The Aussies retained the urn, but were thwarted in their goal of a first outright series win in England in 18 years. Hence, both teams had something to celebrate, and what’s better is that they decided to do it together. In a video posted by the English cricket board, cricketers from both sides were seen hanging out together after the conclusion of the series.
Former England captain Michael Vaughan posted a photo of the dressing room scene. "Love this pic. Exactly what the #Ashes is all about. Great series shared then you share a beer afterwards. You don’t know it at the time but great friendships will have been created!!” he wrote on Instagram.
The photos and videos also got positive reactions from many others on the internet.
It's the first time an Ashes series has ended in a draw since 1972.
Australia's player of the series Smith finished with 774 runs in the series in only seven innings at an average of 110. The star batter received a standing ovation from England and Australia fans as he left the field on Sunday. The 30-year-old Smith posted the highest number of runs in a five-match series since Brian Lara managed 798 against England in 1993-94. In contrast, Australian opener David Warner finished with just 95 runs from 10 innings
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