Former England all-rounder Andrew Flintoff was spotted on the team balcony during the first ODI against New Zealand – speaking after play, Jos Buttler explained his role during the series.
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During his career, Flintoff was England’s most recognisable cricketer, and also one of their best. He won the Compton-Miller Medal during the 2005 Ashes, which England won 2-1 to secure their first series win over Australia since 1986/87.
Since retiring the game, he has built a career outside cricket as a media figure, in particular as host of Top Gear. While filming the popular car show in late 2022, he was airlifted to hospital after an accident at Dunsfold Park Aerodrome, with filming of the show suspended afterwards.
Flintoff’s appearance at Sophia Gardens in Cardiff for the first ODI against New Zealand was the first time he had been pictured since the accident.
Speaking after England’s eight-wicket defeat, Buttler explained that Flintoff wasn’t with England “in a specific role” but would be available for any players to talk to.
“He’s obviously an England legend and it’s just nice to have him around the group,” Buttler said. “He’s not been brought in with any specific role, just to be around and observe. A few of the lads can pick his brains a little bit and he’s settled in really well. It’s great to have him with us. Just for this series.”
While it’s Flintoff’s Test exploits that he is best remembered for, his ODI record exceeds that in the longest format. In 50-over cricket for England he averaged 32 with the bat, marginally higher than in Tests, while striking at 88.82 runs per 100 balls. With the ball, he claimed 169 wickets at an average of 24, with an economy of 4.39 runs per over.
England are ODI world champions, but have won just five of their last 15 games in the format. Their World Cup defence starts against New Zealand in less than a month. The second game of the four-match series between the sides will take place tomorrow (September 9) at Southampton.
