ENGLAND captain Alastair Cook has hailed the Swalec Stadium 2015 Ashes opener as even better than the 2009 classic in Cardiff, writes Chris Kirwan.

The hosts wrapped up a stunning 169-run victory against the Australians after four action-packed days in the capital.

Six years ago the Test went to the final day with the final pair of James Anderson and Monty Panesar clinging on to provide a moment of Ashes gold.

The Aussies dominated that encounter but this time, after centurion and man of the match Joe Root helped them overcome a wobbly start, it was England in the ascendancy with wild scenes both on and off the field when the final wicket fell.

“It’s been a superb week,” said the opener. “We got looked after incredibly well by everyone behind the scenes at Glamorgan.

“(Glamorgan chief executive) Hugh Morris and his staff can be incredibly proud of the way that they put this Test on – compared to 2009 it was a massive step forward. There was a great buzz around the place.”

“You can’t fault the signing from the stands,” he continued. “When you needed a lift ‘Delilah’ came on and it was a real privilege to play out there.”

Cook’s Australian counterpart Michael Clarke was also full of praise for their hosts and fervent Swalec Stadium support.

“The fans have been great,” said the batsman, who must rally his troops for Thursday's Test at Lord's. “I love the support that you get when you play in your own back yard, it’s no different in Australia.

“The people of Wales, Cardiff and everybody who has come to support at the game has been fantastic. That’s what you expect – the Barmy Army were nice and loud and that’s part of the Ashes.”