Guardian Readers' Favourite Ashes Cricketers Revealed
The Guardian published a feature on January 2, 2026, compiling readers' 100 favourite Ashes cricketers from England and Australia.
Among the England favourites is Jonny Bairstow, noted for his resilience since 2013 alongside Ian Bell, his replacement of Matt Prior in 2013-14, a triumphant return during the 2015 Ashes, two away centuries since 2011, a disappointing 2019 series, a notable 99 not out at Old Trafford in 2023, and a three-year contract with Yorkshire.
Syd Barnes is remembered as a wonderful, inimitable, and terrifying bowler who claimed 13 wickets for 163 runs in 80 overs during the second Test of the 1901-02 Ashes. MCC secretary Billy Griffith described him as the greatest bowler, with readers highlighting his remarkable career tally of 6,229 wickets at an average of 8.33.
Richie Benaud is celebrated as a reader favourite for his stylish play and leadership, with lasting influence and impact on the game.
Don Bradman is hailed as the greatest Ashes batter, boasting an Ashes average just shy of 90, two triple centuries, and a famed double century achieved after reversing the batting order in Melbourne in 1937.
Ian Botham is regarded as England's greatest cricketer, famed for performances at Headingley and Old Trafford in 1981 and during Australia's 1986-87 tour, with memorable remarks involving Merv Hughes.
Andrew Flintoff is praised for his all-round excellence and leadership, recognized as a defining figure of the Ashes era due to his powerful bowling, impactful batting, and charismatic presence.
Adam Gilchrist is acknowledged as an exceptionally exciting batter, highlighted especially by his rapid 57-ball century in Perth in 2006.
