Not many international sporting contests predate the countries that play them, but few contests are as old as the Ashes.
The cricket series between England and Australia was first played in 1882, before Australia was even founded as a nation.
On Friday, its 73rd edition will begin in Edgbaston, a suburb of Birmingham, England.
Ashes series consist of five so-called Test matches, each of which lasts for up to five days; the series is won by the team that wins more of these games.
Because of its interwoven challenge of skill and endurance, Test cricket has long been considered the highest level, and perhaps the purest form, of the sport.
Locations:
England, Australia, Edgbaston, Birmingham