the Ashes

Short definition from Wiktionary

Proper noun

1. 1
   A trophy played for by England and Australia in Test cricket; in the form of a small urn containing the ashes of a cremated cricket stump or set of bails.
2. 2
   A series of Test cricket matches played between England and Australia.
3. 3
   A nominal trophy contested by England and Australia in other sports, especially rugby league.
4. 4
   A series of such test matches.