The aim of this book is to present an account of the Ashes by using contemporary reports rather than judgements on events made with hindsight. At least one item has been chosen for each series in which the Ashes have been at stake since 1882-3, with the exception of the Packer short series of 1979-80, when the Ashes were not in contention. Potted scores for each match and averages for each series are included in the text, which sets the scene for each match. Thus the reader can follow the history of the Ashes as a continuous story, and can appreciate the changing fortunes of England and Australia on the field. The outstanding players and personalities, the role of administrators, the great matches and the long-running Anglo-Australian relationship are all examined. Peter Wynne-Thomas also wrote An A-Z of Cricket Records, England on Tour, The History of Hampshire County Cricket Club and co-authored with Peter Arnold Cricket in Conflict and The History of the Test Match.