Ashes returns to venue of 'iconic scenes'

England

Glamorgan Cricket Chief Executive Hugh Morris recollected fond memories of Sophia Gardens' inaugural Ashes Test in 2009, after the England and Wales Cricket Board's confirmation of a second on Monday.

Glamorgan Cricket Chief Executive Hugh Morris recollected fond memories of Sophia Gardens' inaugural Ashes Test in 2009, after the England and Wales Cricket Board's confirmation of a second on Monday.

The Wales venue, which witnessed tail-enders James Anderson and Monty Panesar force an entertaining draw four years ago, has been granted the opening fixture for 2014's five-Test series against Australia.

"We are delighted to be hosting the opening Ashes Test, which promises to be an exciting and hugely anticipated contest, as one the world' s most renowned sporting rivalries resumes in Cardiff," said Morris.

"As in 2009, the Ashes series will be one of the major highlights of the sporting year, with huge crowds and superb action on the field. The iconic scenes of Panesar and Anderson's last-wicket stand was one of the great memories of that series – and vital in the eventual outcome of the 2009 Ashes."

The second, third, fourth and fifth Tests will be played at Lord's, Edgbaston, Trent Bridge and The Oval respectively. Chester-le-Street in Durham, The Rose Bowl in Southampton and Old Trafford in Manchester have been overlooked.

The Australians are the current holders of the coveted title on the back of a five-nil series triumph earlier this year – on the back of fast bowler Mitchell Johnson's Player of the Series performance.

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