The first match started at the Adelaide Oval on 16 November 1876 and the last at the same venue on 14 April 1877.

A rival tour had been proposed by Fred Grace but was cancelled, enabling most of the best players of the Australian colonies to participate in two matches against James Lillywhite's side.

Fred Spofforth, widely regarded as the best Australian fast bowler, controversially withdrew from the first match in protest over the omission of Billy Murdoch as wicket-keeper.

Although both matches have Test status, this series is not considered to be part of The Ashes, which began in 1882.

Ted Pooley was also a member of the English touring party, but had had to be left behind in New Zealand after he was charged with assault.