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Test matches in the 19th century in the period to 1883 were organised somewhat differently from international cricket matches today. The team involved were rarely fully representative, and the 48-day boat trip between Australia and England was one many cricketers were not able or willing to undertake, and so the Home teams tended to enjoy a great advantage. All of the 13 test matches in the period to 1883 were between Australian and English sides, but most of the games were not styled as "England v Australia"; this description was only being applied later by cricket statisticians. This is also true of the designation of these games as "Test matches", as the term "Test match" did not enter into the vernacular until 1885. 11 of the 13 matches played to 1883 were in Australia, who made the most of the home advantage, winning 7 of them; England won 4 times and 2 were drawn. (more...)

Other featured articles: A. E. J. Collins – The Ashes – Bodyline – Brian Close – History of Test cricket (1884 to 1889) – Sydney Riot of 1879