TAUNTON is to stage its first ever women's Ashes Test in 2019, it has been announced today.

England are to take on Australia in three ODIs, one Test and three T20s across the month of July with the winners to be decided via a points system based on the results of all those matches.

The Test, starting on July 18, is to take place at the Cooper Associates County Ground and will allow Somerset supporters to witness the likes of home favourite Heather Knight and Plymouth-born England skipper Heather Knight in action.

Somerset chief executive Andrew Cornish said: "It goes without saying that Somerset County Cricket Club are delighted to once again be playing host to the England team. Since staging our first women’s international back in 1997, we have developed an excellent relationship with the England team.

“Outstanding players such as Anya Shrubsole, Heather Knight and Fran Wilson have links to this area and I know that our Members take a huge amount of pride in seeing them consistently performing impressively on the biggest stage.

"As a club we are committed to promoting and showcasing the women’s game and to be staging an Ashes Test at the Cooper Associates County Ground is a real feather in our cap.

"I have no doubt that our members will fully support this fixture, as they always do. The Women’s game is going from strength to strength and we are honoured to be playing our part.”