England's best Ashes XI from the 21st century

Chris Tremlett

Chris Tremlett

This is a controversial selection given Chris Tremlett only appeared in 4 Ashes Tests throughout his injury-stricken career. But the giant was a compelling choice considering the other options were Steve Harmison and Matthew Hoggard, both of whom averaged round about the 40-run mark with the ball.

Moreover, Tremlett's pivotal role in the historic Ashes triumph Down Under can never be undermined. He took a total of 17 wickets in the three games that he represented England in that series.

Tremlett wreaked havoc with a short-ball barrage and used his extravagant height to full advantage, leaving the Aussies clueless in their own backyard.

James Anderson

James Anderson

Does the name even need any introduction? It's safe to say James Anderson would have made any Ashes XI, starting from the early 1880s, when the competition was first conceived.

Anderson is not only England's highest wicket-taker both in the Ashes since the 21st century and on the all-time wicket-takers' list, but he also has the most wickets (575) for a fast-bowler in the history of the format. That's a remarkable achievement, yes, but what is even more bizarre is that he is still playing at 37 years young, and still displaying his wizardry with the Dukes ball.

Over the years, Anderson has won many Ashes games for England, the most notable being the thriller at Trent Bridge in 2013 where he took fifers in both innings to take England through. He has been part of four English sides that have had the privilege of bagging the highly sought urn.