Freddie Factor will inspire team, says Strauss

SURREY - England captain Andrew Strauss reckons that the Freddie Factor will inspire his team to do well in the fifth and final Test match at The Oval.

Strauss believes the script has already been written for all-rounder Andrew Flintoff, who will retire from Test cricket, to produce another epic show in his farewell Test.

“The thought of him charging in during his last Test and knocking over some Aussie wickets is very exciting. It is a massive plus having him back in the side. It is the perfect story - his last game in an Ashes Test with a full house. The script is perfectly written,” The Sun quoted Strauss, as saying.

“Fred is going to be completely motivated to go out on a high. He can lift the other players with his performance,” he added.

Though Flintoff did not bowl in the nets during practice session on Tuesday, Strauss said that he is certain that Freddie will play.

Meanwhile, Australia captain Ricky Ponting has warned that the expectations on Flintoff could probably backfire.

“It is his last game and he knows it is such an important one for England. That will bring extra pressure,” Ponting said. (ANI)