2013 Ashes schedule announced

The schedule for next year's Ashes series has been revealed, with Durham's Riverside set to host an Ashes Test for the first time.

Andrew Strauss' men will begin the defence of the Ashes crown with back-to-back Tests at Trent Bridge and Lord's in July 2013. Old Trafford will then host the third Test at the start of August, the first Ashes Test at Lancashire's ground since 2005. Durham's Riverside stadium will host the fourth Test while the series will be wrapped up at the Oval. "The prospect of England defending the Ashes on home soil, the world's top eight teams competing in the ICC Champions Trophy, and a full programme of 50-over and T20 international cricket will provide rich pickings for cricket fans next summer," said David Collier, the ECB's chief executive. "Last season's international programme attracted a record aggregate attendance of more than 850,000 spectators and we would urge all fans to purchase their international tickets early for 2013 to avoid missing out on what promises to be a memorable summer." There will also be two T20 internationals and five one-day internationals across the summer before England prepare to head Down Under the following winter. The Australia Ashes series has been brought forward to the 2013-14 winter in order to avoid clashing with the 2015 World Cup, which will be held in Australia.