BRAVE Freddie Flintoff will for now stay as a coach for the England Cricket team following his near-fatal Top Gear car crash. He was only intended to help out for the one-day international series against New Zealand, which England won.
Extended Role
England say there are no plans for Flintoff to join the team for the Cricket World Cup, which starts October 3. But Flintoff will feature in the one-day international series against Ireland and continue in a flexible role with this less-experienced team.
Inspiring Return
Ben Duckett, England’s vice-captain for the three day series against Ireland, which continues today, said the 45-year-old's return to cricket was "incredible". He added: "I wasn't expecting to see him here and to have someone who’s done what he’s done for the game is so special. For young lads here to have him throwing balls at you in the nets and talking to you about cricket is incredible."
Happy Coaching Staff
Coaching staff are reportedly happy with the arrangement, The Telegraph reports.
No World Cup Plans
Despite this, England say there are no plans for Flintoff to join the team for the Cricket World Cup, which starts October 3.
Return to Training
Flintoff returned to England cricket training on September 7 after months out of the game following a horrific car crash. He was pictured helping to coach the England team in Cardiff in their match against New Zealand. It was his first time back on the crease since a horror smash left him with a smashed jaw and broken ribs.
Near-Fatal Car Crash
He was driving a three-wheel, open-topped, 130mph Morgan Super 3 when it flipped and slid along a track while filming with Top Gear. The car didn't have an airbag and Freddie was not wearing a helmet when he crashed at Dunsfold aerodrome, Surrey, on December 13. The cricketing ace had to wait 45 minutes to be airlifted to hospital. The BBC have been accused of failings in its duty of care towards Flintoff.
