And so, with England and Australia set to do battle once again in pursuit of the famous little urn, we take a look back at a few famous Lancastrian faces who have partaken in one of sport’s greatest rivalries over the years…
1. Lancashire's Ashes Test Cricketers
James Anderson: A living legend and Lancashire's joint-top Ashes appearance-maker alongside Archie MacLaren, Jimmy is not only the greatest ever pace bowler in the history of the game, but England's leading Test wicket-taker, with 685 wickets. Not bad for a lad from Burnley. Photo: Adam Davy
2. Lancashire's Ashes Test cricketers
Archie MacLaren: One of the most stylish players of his era back in the late 1800s and early 1900s, MacLaren played all 35 of his Test matches against Australia, but was something of an unpopular member of the team owing to his spikey persona. He did, however, score 22,236 runs across a 24-year career with Lancashire. Photo: Other
3. Lancashire's Ashes Test cricketers
Freddie Flintoff: Preston's finest cricketing son, Freddie is famed for his breathtaking performance in the 2005 Ashes series and, alongside Ian Botham, WG Grace, Wilfred Rhodes, and Ben Stokes, is considered one of England's greatest all-rounders. Photo: Tom Shaw
4. Lancashire's Ashes Test cricketers
Michael Atherton: Given the nickname FEC (Future England Captain) whilst at Cambridge University, Athers played in 33 Ashes Tests and, while his record against a certain Glenn McGrath is best left unmentioned, he established himself as a real '90s legend of the sport. Photo: BOB COLLIER