Guardian readers have cast their votes, revealing a deeply personal and passionate list of their favourite cricketers from the long and storied history of the men's Ashes series. Moving beyond pure statistics to celebrate impact, character, and enduring memories, the selections span from the undisputed legends to beloved cult heroes who captured the public's imagination.
Undisputed Legends and Iconic Figures
The pantheon of Ashes greats features prominently, with many readers citing the sheer dominance of Sir Donald Bradman. His phenomenal Ashes average of nearly 90, including two triple centuries, and his leadership during the infamous Bodyline series, cement his status for many as the ultimate Ashes batter.
Similarly, the late Shane Warne is hailed not just for his skill but for the excitement he brought to every contest. Readers recalled his devastating 'Ball of the Century' in 1993 and, poignantly, his valiant 90 at Old Trafford in the 2005 series, a performance that earned admiration from fans on both sides of the rivalry.
Other titans of the game receiving heartfelt nominations include the fearsome Australian pace duo of Dennis Lillee and Jeff Thomson, remembered for terrifying English batters in the 1970s. The charismatic all-rounder Ian Botham was celebrated for his heroic performances in 1981, while the elegant David Gower was praised as "elegance personified."
Cherished Cult Heroes and Personal Favourites
Beyond the superstar names, readers shared affectionate tributes to players whose contributions resonated on a personal level. Monty Panesar was championed as the "epitome of Ashes cricket," with his unwavering commitment and famous rear-guard batting alongside Jimmy Anderson at Cardiff in 2009 highlighted as a defining moment of spirit.
The story of David Steele, the 33-year-old, grey-haired, bespectacled batsman who defiantly faced down the Australian pace attack in 1975, was recalled as one of the Ashes' most heartening and unexpected tales. His performances were so inspiring he was voted BBC Sports Personality of the Year.
Other cult figures included Bob Massie, whose mesmerising 16-wicket debut at Lord's in 1972 left a lasting impression, and Derek Randall, remembered for his brilliant, fun-filled 174 in the 1977 Centenary Test and his audacious cap-doffing to a furious Dennis Lillee.
Modern Era Stars and Emotional Connections
The modern era of the Ashes is also strongly represented. Andrew Flintoff was described as "everything the Ashes should be about," embodying ferocious athleticism and heart during the legendary 2005 series. Kevin Pietersen was credited with helping to break England's long Ashes drought, bringing a fearless, dominating presence to the crease.
For Australian fans, Adam Gilchrist redefined excitement with his blistering strokeplay, notably his 57-ball century in Perth in 2006. Steve Smith's unique style and relentless accumulation of runs against England have earned him a place among contemporary favourites, with one reader admitting, "I find myself copying his ticks in all walks of life."
The selections are bound with personal history. One reader traced a lifelong love of cricket to watching Richie Benaud's charismatic captaincy in 1961, while another recalled listening to Frank "Typhoon" Tyson's radio-broadcast demolition of Australia in 1954-55 as an 11-year-old. From Jonny Bairstow's resilience to Graham Thorpe's flint-hard brilliance in a difficult era for England, each choice tells a story beyond the scorebook, capturing the essence of why the Ashes rivalry continues to captivate.
