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The Ashes series began in the 1882/83 season in Australia. Since then, there have been many great bowling performances. They are needed especially in the fourth innings of a Test match in order to save a defeat and try to win the match.
Here is a list of the lowest totals defended in an Ashes Test:
| S. No. | Team | Venue | Total defended | Ashes series |
| 1 | Australia | London (KO) | 85 | 1882 |
| 2 | England | Sydney | 111 | 1887/88 |
| 3 | England | London (KO) | 111 | 1896 |
| 4 | Australia | London (Lord's) | 124 | 1888 |
| 5 | Australia | Manchester | 124 | 1902 |
| 6 | England | London (KO) | 124 | 1997 |
| 7 | England | Headingley | 130 | 1981 |
There have been seven such occasions when a team has lost while trying to chase a target of 150 or less in the fourth innings. England have won four of those while the Aussies won three.
The lowest ever total defended in an Ashes Test was in the first-ever Ashes Test in 1882. Australia defended a target of a mere 85 runs as they bundled out the English side for just 77. Fred Spofforth took 7 wickets in the second innings to add to his 7 in the first and win the match for Australia by 7 runs.
Interestingly, four of these matches were played in London and only one was played in Australia. None of the teams have managed to defend less than 150 in the 21st century.
