Riverside to hold Ashes Test in 2013

Jul 31 2009 by Ben Guy, The Journal

ASHES cricket will be played in the North East, it was announced yesterday.

Durham County Cricket Club has won the right to stage an England v Australia match at its Riverside ground in the 2013 series.

The news represents a major coup for the club, which will be one of just a handful across the country to stage one of the prestigious matches.

Club chief executive David Harker described the England and Wales Cricket Board announcement as “fantastic news”.

He said: “As well as producing a winning team it has also been a goal to bring an Ashes Test to the region and we’re delighted North East sports fans will have the opportunity to watch the ultimate clash between England and Australia on their doorstep.

“Riverside has a renowned reputation for successfully hosting international fixtures and we can’t wait to begin our preparations for our biggest game to date.”

The club had bid for a match in the current series, but lost out to Cardiff.