The first Ashes cricket test in Birmingham for six years will be the pivotal third in the series, it has been confirmed.
Warwickshire CCC announced today that it would host the Third Investec Ashes Test over five day in July next year.
More than 100,000 spectators are expected to watch up to five days of play, which starts on 29 July and will provide a welcome boost to Birmingham's hotels, bars and restaurants.
Colin Povey, chief executive of Warwickshire County Cricket Club, said: "Edgbaston has a proud history of hosting Ashes Tests, including the Botham-inspired 29-run victory in 1981 and the 'Greatest Ever Test' of 2005 where Freddie Flintoff helped England to a two-run victory.
"Since our last Ashes Test in 2009, we've transformed Edgbaston in to one of the leading sports stadiums in the country.
"Last year's ICC Champions Trophy Final proved that Edgbaston and Birmingham provide an excellent match day experience to all spectators and we're looking forward to welcoming thousands of fans to the city for this great event."
Next month, Edgbaston will host England against Sri Lanka in a Royal London one day international June and India for two matches in September.
