The Ashes Series is a prestigious cricket competition played between England and Australia. It consists of a series of five Test matches, typically held every two years. The series is named after a small urn, which is believed to contain the ashes of a cricket bail, symbolizing the rivalry between the two nations. The Ashes began in 1882, following a match where Australia defeated England on English soil for the first time. The series has since become one of the most celebrated events in cricket, showcasing intense competition and sportsmanship between the two teams.