The England and Wales Cricket Board and Cricket Australia have reached agreement on the tour dates for the npower Ashes series, the NatWest Series and the two NatWest International Twenty20 matches next year.
The 'holding role' is a familiar term in football, a phrase often bestowed on a player who is unlikely to make the headlines, but Jamie How is taking it on for New Zealand.
Full Story: Batsman relishes challenge
Tickets are still available for England’s NatWest series clash with New Zealand at Bristol on June 21. The game is the third of a five-match series against the Black Caps.
Full Story: Seats available from £13
The Rose Bowl will become the 10th Test match venue in England and Wales when it stages England's clash with Sri Lanka in 2011. The ECB has also endorsed fixtures.
Media Release: Hampshire added to list
The England and Wales Cricket Board met this week and have approved 17 recommendations.
Media Release: Trial periods planned