Freddy targets summer return

England Cricket / Editor / 08 June 2007 / Leave a Comment

Andrew Flintoff says he is confident that he will be able to play for England this summer, as he continues his recovery from ankle surgery.

There were concerns that the all-rounder would not play for his country again this year, with many pundits suggesting that a complete rest would be the best treatment.

But Flintoff is making good progress and the Lancastrian is now upbeat about his chances of featuring in the Test series against India - which starts at Lord's on July 19.

The 29-year-old revealed: "I'm hoping to play at some stage this summer.
"We're not putting a time frame on it, we'll just see how it goes. One thing I want to do is get the ankle right. I want to get out there and bowl fast again."

Flintoff added: "I've had two operations in the back of the ankle, which aren't related to the latest one I've had.
"The back of the ankle is in perfect shape and they are confident that after this the front will be as well."

The return of Flintoff is likely to only strengthen England's position as favourites to win the home Test series against India. Michael Vaughan's men are trading at 1.92 to claim victory in the three-match series, with the tourists on offer at 3.6 and the draw available at 4.2.