Freddie Flintoff Returns to England Cricket: Paul Collingwood Shares Insights
By Lawrence Booth for MailOnline
Published: 17:10 BST, 12 September 2023 | Updated: 17:37 BST, 12 September 2023
Former England cricketer Andrew Flintoff, known for his heroics in the 2005 Ashes series, is overjoyed to be involved with the England team once again, as expressed by his former teammate Paul Collingwood. Flintoff, who recently made a public appearance following a near-fatal car crash during the filming of BBC’s Top Gear show in December 2022, is currently serving as a consultant for Jos Buttler’s side during their one-day series against New Zealand.
In training for the third One Day International (ODI) at The Oval, Flintoff was seen in high spirits, laughing and joking with Jonny Bairstow, and even donning a baseball mitt as a makeshift wicketkeeper for Jofra Archer. Collingwood, England’s assistant Test coach, praised Flintoff’s presence and the wealth of knowledge and experience he brings. He believes that Flintoff embodies the core ethos of the current white-ball team, which focuses on applying pressure to the opposition.
Collingwood shares, “Having someone like Flintoff around is important for him personally, and it’s great for the lads to have him around. He has an incredible understanding of the game and how to handle pressure situations. He truly represents the spirit of this team. It’s almost surreal for him to be working with the players he used to watch on TV. Statements like these really humble us.”
Reflecting on Flintoff’s journey, Collingwood highlights Flintoff’s successful foray into entertainment, but acknowledges that cricket is where his heart lies now. Being involved with the national team is a positive development for Flintoff’s mental well-being. Collingwood believes that Flintoff has thoroughly enjoyed his time with the team.
Collingwood, who captained England to their first World Cup title in 2010, sees similarities between the current one-day side and the victorious squad of 2019. He expresses confidence that the team possesses the necessary skills and talent to retain the 50-over World Cup in India later this year. Collingwood states, “Playing in India presents unique challenges, but the team has the skill levels and the pool of players to go out there and defend their World Cup title. Retaining the World Cup is a massive incentive, and I’m sure they have the belief that they can achieve it.”
Recalling England’s successful campaign in 2010, where they made last-minute changes to the T20 side, Collingwood draws a parallel to the current situation. There is talk of including Harry Brook in the squad, and Collingwood acknowledges Brook’s immense potential. However, he emphasizes that there are several players in contention who have the ability to be match-winners. He recognizes the strength and depth of talent in English cricket at the moment.
With so many options to choose from, Collingwood acknowledges the challenge of narrowing down the squad to just 15 players. However, he believes that the current state of English cricket is incredibly strong and exciting, and he is eager to see how things unfold.
To learn more about Play Their Way, access resources, and join the grassroots movement to revolutionize coaching for children and young people, visit www.playtheirway.org.
Share or comment on this article: Freddie Flintoff is ‘pinching himself’ to be back involved with England after his near-fatal car crash while filming Top Gear, says Paul Collingwood
Denial of responsibility! Vigour Times is an automatic aggregator of Global media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
