5 of the lowest points for Australia in Ashes history

#2 3rd Test at Headingley, 1981

A win for England in the 1981 Ashes

The 1981 Ashes series in England will go down in history as one of the most memorable Test series ever played between the two sides and that is down to the events that took place in the 3rd Test of the series at Headingley.

Australia won the first Test at Trent Bridge with ease and after a draw at Lord's, the teams went to Headingley for the third Test. However, things were looking grim for England as they were forced to follow on after being dismissed for 174 in response to Australia's 401. Following on, Australia reduced England to 135 for 7 and it seemed that it was only a matter of time before they went 2-0 up.

However, Ian Botham, who was removed as captain midway through the series, played a stunning innings of 149 off 148 balls (27 fours and a six) and in the company of Graham Dilley, helped England score 356. Even then, the game was in Australia's grasp as they only needed to score 130 for victory. When they moved to 56 for the loss of 1 wicket, it seemed that they were heading for a 2-0 lead in the series. However, Bob Willis bowled an inspired spell to take 8 wickets for 43 runs, dismissing Australia for 111 and completing one of the most remarkable turnarounds in cricket history.

That remains one of Australia's lowest points not only in the Ashes but in their entire cricket history. The team seemed shell-shocked after that loss and lost the next two Tests, before drawing the third, surrendering the Ashes in the process.