India, Australia, and England are shaping up to be the big three of world cricket, the rivalry between Australia and England in the Ashes has gone way back in history. However, in recent times with performances in the last couple of tours, there have been growing murmurs that the India-Australia rivalry is taking precedence over the Ashes.
However, former England cricket Michael Vaughan believes it is not the case. “There has been some talk out here and in India that this is now cricket’s greatest rivalry. I disagree. Nothing comes close to the Ashes for history and heritage. Across almost 150 years the rivalry and hostility between England and Australia run so deep,” he wrote in his column.
“It is the best series of this era, just as we used to look at West Indies playing in Australia or England as the best of the 1980s. We do not talk about those series now, because West Indies have faded. If Australia and India put together another generation or two of competition like this, perhaps we can have the “greatest rivalry” conversation. For now, give me a break,” Vaughan added.
India has not lost a series against Australia since 2014/15 both home and away. England on the other hand since the 2010/11 series when they have last beaten Australia away from home in a series could not be much of a match for them Down Under. In their own backyard though the series has been more competitive England has only managed to draw the last two series.a
“What I will concede is that, in this generation, Australia and India have been the best two teams, and have consistently provided the most entertaining series. The Ashes have been thrilling in England, but one-sided Down Under. India have won the past four series (all of which have been four matches) 2-1, which shows that competition has been decent in both countries, even if India have the edge,” Vaughan further wrote.