International Cricket Comes to Wales in 2001

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) today confirmed that Cardiff will stage international one-day cricket in 2001 following the ECB Management Board's decision to allocate a match between Australia and Pakistan to Sophia Gardens next June. The match will form part of the triangular one-day tournament between England, Australia and Pakistan and although final itineraries have not yet been agreed, it will take place between 7th and 24th June 2001.

Tim Lamb, Chief Executive of the ECB, said: "We were very impressed with the way Glamorgan staged their World Cup fixture between Australia and New Zealand last year and although it was not possible to confirm a game this summer we are delighted to be able to do so for 2001. Clearly it is important for the England and Wales Cricket Board to be staging some international cricket in Wales and we have been impressed with the enthusiasm of everyone at Glamorgan in wanting to host a One-Day International. We are confident that an Australia/Pakistan match in Cardiff will prove to be a big success."

Glamorgan Secretary Mike Fatkin said: "We're delighted the ECB Management Board has taken this decision, and especially pleased to be given such an early indication. It is wonderful news for cricket supporters in Wales. Although we face a lot of hard work over the coming months in preparing for and building up to the game, we are sure that a game between two high profile sides - a repeat of the World Cup Final - will prove popular with Welsh cricket followers. Although disappointed not to have been allocated an international this summer we understand the reasons, but, having worked hard to make our case, it is now up to us to ensure that we make the game as successful as we possibly can."