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Test cricket from 1877 to 1883 was organised somewhat differently from international cricket today. The teams involved were rarely fully representative, and the 48-day boat trip between Australia and England was one that many cricketers were not able or willing to undertake. As such the home teams usually enjoyed a great selection advantage.

Thirteen test matches were played in this period and all were between Australian and English sides. Eleven of these were in Australia, which made the most of its home advantage by winning seven, while England won four and two were drawn. By 1883, the tradition of England-Australia tours was well established, with that year bringing the first Ashes series.