Hobart Ashes Test praised by Ricky Ponting and Ian Botham

Cricket Australia, Cricket Tasmania and the Tasmanian Government all trumpeted the official announcement on Saturday morning prompting the host state's most successful product to air his delight.

"Rapt for Hobart and everyone in Tasmania that we get an Ashes Test," Ponting said on Twitter. "Can't wait to get back to my home state next month for what should be a great week and hopefully a quality game."

READ MORE: It's official, the Ashes to land in Hobart

Speaking on Channel Seven, Australia's all-time leading run-scorer called Bellerive Oval "the home of cricket" and challenged his fellow Tasmanians to sell out the Hobart venue for what will also be its first day-night Test.

"How good for the whole state of Tasmania to have such a high profile sporting contest like the Ashes come to Hobart," Ponting added.

"I know they'll put on a great show down there, day-night game, let's just hope every day is sold out and, even better, let's hope the series is on the line come the fifth Test."

READ MORE: Preparations underway ahead of Hobart Test

Ponting's commentary colleague Ian Botham called the news "magnificent" while many ex-players expressed delight on social media.

"Great news that Hobart has an Ashes Test! Great decision for the game. So pleased for Tasmania!" said Jason Gillespie.

READ MORE: Hobart Ashes Test a once in a lifetime event

Premier Peter Gutwein said landing the fixture represented "a famous victory for Tasmania" while Cricket Tasmania chief executive Dominic Baker said it presented "a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity" for cricket fans in the state.

The match is set for January 14-18. Hobart has hosted 13 Tests, with Australia winning nine and losing two, including by an innings against South Africa in the last match there in 2016.

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