Toss: England. Test debuts: England - W.Barnes, E.M.Grace, G.F.Grace, W.G.Grace, Hon.A.Lyttelton, F.Morley, F.Penn, A.G.Steel; Australia - G.Alexander, G.J.Bonner, T.U.Groube, P.S.McDonnell, W.H.Moule, G.E.Palmer, J.Slight. The compiler much regrets that the limited space allotted to the Australians' matches in this book precludes the possibility of giving a lengthened account of this famous contest.

He must therefore rest content to put on record the following facts anent the match: – That in the history of the game no contest has created such world-wide interest; that the attendances on the first and second days were the largest ever seen at a cricket match; that 20,814 persons passed through the turnstiles on Monday, 19,863 on the Tuesday, and 3,751 on the Wednesday; that fine weather favoured the match from start to finish; that the wickets were faultless; that Mr Murdoch's magnificent innings of 153 not out was made without a chance, and contained one 5, eighteen 4s, three 3s, thirteen 2s and 41 singles; that Mr W.G.Grace's equally grand innings was made with only one hard chance, and comprised twleve 4s, ten 3s, fourteen 2s, and 46 singles; that superb batting was also shown by Mr Lucas, Lord Harris, Mr McDonnell, and Mr Steel; that the fielding and wicket-keeping on both sides was splendid; that a marvellous change in the aspect of the game was effected on the last day; that universal regret was felt at the unavoidable absence of Mr Spofforth; and that England won the match by 5 wickets.

© Wisden CricInfo Ltd