Simon Jones wants to face Australia at Sophia Gardens

On Thursday the Cardiff venue was awarded a Test match between England and Australia in 2009.

"As a Welshman I can't wait for 2009 and to be a part of the England team meeting our oldest rivals Australia in an Ashes Test in Cardiff," Jones said.

"Last year's Ashes was phenomenally successful and the idea of Sophia Gardens staging a game is fantastic."

Throughout Wales this will inspire young cricketers to join Simon Jones and become the Test cricketers of the future Glamorgan captain Robert Croft

Former England spin bowler Robert Croft, Jones' captain at Glamorgan, is equally excited by the news.

"I know this will provide cricket in Wales and Glamorgan in particular with a massive boost," Croft said.

"I can still remember the day I made my debut as a full England Test cricketer.

"I know that throughout Wales this will inspire young cricketers to join Simon Jones and become the Test cricketers of the future.

"I am delighted for all cricket fans in Wales and on their behalf I pay tribute to all of those who have worked so hard to make what was once a dream for so many of us a reality."