Top 5 controversies in Ashes history

#1 The infamous 'Bodyline' episode

The Bodyline incident tarnished the reputation of cricket being a gentleman's game

In its 135 years of history, the Bodyline episode remains the most controversial moment in the Ashes rivalry. During the 1932/33 series, the touring England captain Douglas Jardine was wary of Australia's exceptionally gifted and attacking batsman Donald Bradman who held a nonplussing batting average of 139.14 at that point in time.

Jardine believed that Bradman would struggle against high-bouncing deliveries bowled into his chest. Therefore, he ordered his fast bowlers to target the Australian batsmen by bowling at their rib-cage. The tactic, which was labelled as 'Bodyline', became a highly questionable and dangerous strategy.

Extra Cover: Classic Ashes Series - Bodyline 1932-33

Bodyline, a name coined by the Australian press, implied placing of at least five fielders close to the batsman with the bowler continuiusly bowling short-pitched deliveries aimed at leg stump. These balls would quickly bounce up playing with the physical safety and lives of the batsmen.

Bradman missed the first Test played at the Sydney Cricket Ground amid speculation of a nervous breakdown. England won the series 4-1 and Bradman's batting average in the series came down to 56.