On This Day: England Register First-Ever Innings Victory in Test Cricket History

On 19 January 1883, at the historic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), England delivered one of the earliest and most remarkable performances in Test cricket history. In the second Test of the 1882-83 Ashes series, England recorded the first-ever innings victory in Test cricket, a result that would be etched into cricket folklore and mark a defining moment in the early England vs Australia rivalry.

The three-match series between England and Australia had begun with a dramatic first-Test victory for the hosts. With pride and national bragging rights at stake, England arrived in Melbourne determined to level the series. After winning the toss and electing to bat, the visitors posted a competitive total of 294 runs in challenging batting conditions. Solid contributions came from Charles Leslie (54) and Walter Read (75), while all-rounder Billy Bates played a vital knock of 55, helping England establish a strong position.

However, it was with the ball that Bates truly etched his name into cricket history. Australia, facing a disciplined and potent English bowling attack, struggled in their first innings and were bowled out for just 114. Bates ran through the Australian batting line-up, claiming an outstanding 7 for 28 and completing one of the earliest hat-tricks in Test cricket, dismissing three key batsmen in succession.

Forced to follow on, Australia showed greater resistance in their second innings, but the outcome was never in doubt. Bates once again led the charge, picking up another seven wickets (7 for 74) to finish the match with remarkable figures of 14 for 102. The home side were dismissed for 153, handing England a commanding innings and 27-run victory, and bringing the Ashes series level.

This historic match was significant not only for the result but also for its enduring legacy. It marked the first innings win in Test match history, underlining the rapid evolution of international cricket in its formative years. Bates’ rare feat of scoring a fifty and taking more than ten wickets in the same Test was unprecedented at the time and remains one of the finest all-round performances in Test cricket.

The series went on to strengthen the foundations of the fierce Ashes rivalry, adding to the growing mythology of contests between England and Australia. More than a century later, cricket fans continue to reflect on this match as a landmark in the sport’s journey - a timeless display of grit, skill, and the pioneering spirit of early Test cricket.