Possible Clues:

• Missing leading edge, fellow ultimately loses Ashes
• Fireplace screens block them
• Pieces in a dying fire
• Barbecue coals
• Smoldering remains
• Limbs (not head) — they glow
• People in club lacking leader — the fire may be going out of them
• Remains in the fire?
• Burnt out types drunk beers around motorway
• Remains of empire award kept by Queen with courtiers, ultimately