SOMERSET fans can look forward to international cricket being played in Taunton after the ECB Board granted SCCC approval to move the County Ground to the technical specifications required for international one day cricket.

Following an extensive period of assessment by the Major Match Group, Somerset was recognised as a ground that could meet the technical requirements for international cricket and therefore has the potential to host smaller international fixtures in the future.

Somerset Chairman, Andy Nash said: "The decision made by the ECB Board crowns a ten-year programme of the redevelopment of the County Ground which has always had the objective of bringing international cricket to Taunton.

“This recognises the huge improvements in quality and capacity put in place at The County Ground which we believe is one of the very best grounds in the country.

“I should like to congratulate all those whose vision, hard work and determination has made this possible. Achievements on this scale only come along once in a generation.

“All at Somerset County Cricket Club can now look forward to being given the opportunity to apply to the ECB for the right to host England ODI and T20- fixtures which would bring great benefits to Somerset County Cricket Club, Taunton and the West Country."

Somerset CEO, Guy Lavender said: "This is excellent news for the club and creates the opportunity to bring international cricket to Taunton.

"We have now completed three out of the four key phases of our ground development and the completion of our final phase, which sees the re-development of the Old Pavilion, will bring us up to the required standard for international cricket.”

He added: "Our core objective will always be to provide the best set of facilities we can for domestic cricket, but we are confident that with careful design and planning we can create a brilliant venue for smaller international matches as well.”