Brisbane Cricket Ground

Established: 1895
Capacity: 40,000 approx
Floodlights: Yes
Ends: Stanley Street End, Vulture Street End
Home Team: Queensland
Head Groundsman: Kevin Mitchell Jnr
Ashes History: 17 Tests; 9 Australia wins, 4 England wins, 4 draws
Ashes 2006/7: First Test, 23-27 Nov

The Brisbane Cricket ground, situated in the Woollongabba area of Brisbane and universally known by its nickname the 'Gabba, has been extensively redeveloped over the last 10 years.

The distinctive grassy banks have been replaced with modern stands and, while some of the ground's charm may have been lost in the work, the 'Gabba now offers top-class facilities for players and spectators alike.

The 'Gabba's most famous moment occurred in 1960/1 when it hosted the legendary tied Test between Australia and West Indies.

Traditionally, the 'Gabba wicket has been a batting heaven. The track has always been known for staying flat and true for the duration of the five days. The fast bowlers may get slight assistance early on, but that is the most they can expect to receive.

The 'Gabba will host the first Test of this winter's Ashes series, and England will be hoping to get off to a much better start than four years ago at the same venue.

Then captain Nasser Hussain won the toss on a belter and inserted the Australians. By close of play on day one, the hosts had run up 364 for two and twin centuries from Matthew Hayden helped Australia to a 384-run victory that set the tone for the remainder of the series.