Ready, Freddie? No…
Andrew Flintoff was in fine form last week as he discussed the prospects of making an international return with England. "I definitely feel I could play a Test match now," he told one of the tabloid newspapers.
Brilliant news! Or so we all thought. Because just a day later, it turned out that 'Freddie' couldn't play a Test match at all. Not just yet, anyway – a side strain (whatever that is, it all sounds very feeble to us. Is like a bit of an ache?) ruled him out of England's squad against New Zealand. Boooooo, we all thought.
Should Flintoff, after an injury-ravaged past year and almost countless ankle operations, have been recalled immediately to the team? Damn right he should. England need Flintoff, and not just for his aggressive burst of bowling; Freddie brings something extra to the party. He's one of those larger-than-life characters that English sport nurtures and loves, a man who almost transcends the sport.
The very mention of his surname brings a wry smile to the face of every English cricket fan. Flintoff? The Lancashire father of two with the easy-going nature? The gentle giant? The man who famously got plastered after the 2005 Ashes victory, even when meeting the prime minister with the rest of the team? The man who famously got plastered and took an ill-advised trip out on a pedalo during the 2007 World Cup? Yep, the very same. He may not be as reliable and consistent as a Paul Collingwood or a Ryan Sidebottom, but there is only one Freddie Flintoff.
Hurry back soon, Freddie. We all miss you.
To bet on how England will shape up against New Zealand without our Freddie, check out Bodog's International Cricket odds.While you're at it why not see if you can make some readies on the Indian Premier League too!
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