Flower backs Flintoff to be “fit and firing” for the Ashes

LONDON - England all-rounder Andrew Flintoff is almost certain to make his way back into the team for the Ashes.

Flintoff, who has been out of action for nearly three months after undergoing a knee surgery, showed signs that he is ready to take the field once again when he took six wickets in his comeback match against Durham last week.

It is expected that Flintoff will take on the field in the practice match against the Warwickshire beginning from July 1.

English coach Andy Flower said that Freddie has virtually recovered from the operation on his right knee.

“It is very good news that Andrew is back playing again and apparently recovered from his operation. I’d think Flintoff would be in the squad for the match against Warwickshire. He is a shoo-in for the First Test if he is fit and firing,” The Sun quoted Flower, as saying.

Referring to his side’s elimination from the ICC Twenty20 World Championship, Flower said his focus has now shifted to the Ashes.

When asked that whether Adil Rashid will be chosen as No 2 spinner instead of Monty Panesar, Flower said Rashid had performed brilliantly in the T20 Championship, and he could partner Graeme Swann if England decides to play two spinners.

“Rashid’s bowling was one of the positive things to come out of the tournament. He hasn’t played a Test so it would be a big ask for him to play in the Ashes. But I like him, I like his bowling and he has learned a lot,” Flower said. (ANI)