Andrew Flintoff among the coaching staff for the England team
Andrew Flintoff made his first public appearance since his accident. He was seen in England’s coaching department in the first ODI against New Zealand.
Source: X/mufaddal_vohra
Andrew Flintoff (Freddie) was seen among the coaching staff for the England team during the first ODI against New Zealand. This was his first public appearance since his horrific accident nine months ago. Freddie nearly escaped death during the accident that occurred during shooting for a Top Gear episode. In the 210 kph crash, the 45-year-old English cricketer had face injuries and shattered ribs.
England’s ODI captain, Jos Buttler talked about the former legendary all-rounder. Buttler said, “He’s a legend and it’s great to have him around.”Driving an open-topped three-wheel Morgan Super 3 for the BBC motor show at Dunsfold Park Aerodrome in Surrey in December, Freddie came dangerously close to losing his life. But nine months later, he was spotted in charge of fielding drills during a one-day matchup at Cardiff’s Sophia Gardens.
Advertisement
Is Flintoff part of the England coaching setup?
It was understood that he serves as an unpaid consultant on the side and is not a recognized part of the coaching staff. Using a catching mitt, Flintoff, who had 226 wickets for England, took balls from Reece Topley and Gus Atkinson.
Freddie was then photographed seated on the players’ balcony during England’s innings with famous players Joe Root and Ben Stokes. The star all-rounder was occasionally seen donning bucket hats and dark glasses with the England logo.
Will Flintoff join the national team?
Before making a switch to coach the English international side, it is believed that he will be doing a coaching stint with the England U-19 setup. Skipper Buttler talked about Flintoff’s involvement in the squad and what he brings to the table. Buttler said, “He’s starting to do a bit of stuff in cricket. He’s an England legend and it’s great to have him around the squad. He’s not in any specific role but a few of the lads can pick his brain.”
Following Flintoff’s accident, BBC executives stopped all Top Gear filming and “sincerely apologized” to the cricketer.