“Flintoff’s retirement can be a boost for English players”, says Gilchrist
By ANIThursday, July 16, 2009
LONDON - Former Australian cricket star Adam Gilchrist fears that England all-rounder Andrew Flintoff’s looming retirement will motivate the England squad in the four remaining Ashes Tests.
“I don’t think the Aussies will be affected but it (Flintoff’s retirement) can be a boost for the English players. I know from my time that a when a great player retired, you did everything you could to see them off with a series win,” The Sun quoted Gilchrist, as saying.
“So England will be up for this Ashes series even more,” he added.
The 37 year-old also highlighted that Flintoff’s enthusiasm to manage England batting and bowling department took a toll on his body.
“It’s always sad when a player of that calibre retires but his body clearly couldn’t cope with the demands. I think Freddie is a victim of his own abilities and skill - he happily took on huge responsibility with the bat and ball,” Gilchrist said.
“That brings physical stress but there is a lot of cricket around too and it’s hard not to be drawn to financially rewarding competitions. You have to maximise your earnings in the small window of playing time you have in a career,” he added. (ANI)
