Brad Haddin vs James Anderson — Ashes 2013-14

During Australia's dominant 5-0 Ashes whitewash in 2013-14, wicketkeeper Brad Haddin took on the role of chief antagonist toward the English team. His primary target was James Anderson, England's leading fast bowler, who had been involved in confrontations with Australian players in previous series.

Haddin's sledging of Anderson was relentless and, according to some reports, extremely personal. There were unconfirmed reports that Anderson was reduced to tears by the sustained verbal assault during one of the Tests. Anderson's performances deteriorated markedly through the series, and many attributed this partly to the psychological warfare waged by Haddin and other Australian players.

Haddin later said the strategy was deliberate — the Australians had identified Anderson as England's key player and decided to target him verbally. The approach was controversial but effective. Haddin also sledged other English players extensively, earning a reputation as one of the most combative wicketkeepers in cricket. After the series, Haddin defended his approach, saying he was simply playing hard cricket and that sledging had always been part of the game.