Writing in the 2011 Wisden Cricketers’ Almanack after Andrew Flintoff’s retirement, now-national selector Ed Smith examines the aura and enigma of one of England’s greatest all-rounders.
First published in the 2011 Wisden Cricketers’ Almanack. Ed Smith is now an author and national selector of the England cricket team.
When Andrew Flintoff walked out to the middle in a Test match he took with him the good wishes of the nation. Cheeky grin, natural stride, helmet off: Flintoff never liked the anonymity of hiding behind a grille. He revelled in making a human connection, with team-mates, with friends, with the crowd. People thrilled to the fact he was a little bit like them – only much, much better at cricket.
In his early days in an England shirt, that popularity rankled with some older pros. “Why the huge cheer? What’s he ever actually done on a cricket field?” one England player asked me before Flintoff really hit his straps.
Perhaps he has thought more than enough about the pitfalls of fame. And anyway maybe this is not the time. Either way I can hear his voice in my head as I write this. “Enough of the long words, Ed, buy me a beer.” I will indeed. We all owe you one, Fred.
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